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Grand Hyatt Baha Mar Review: Is This Family Escape Worth Every Point?

The Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is more than just a resort; it’s a massive playground in the heart of Nassau. While the stunning architecture and turquoise waters are a given, navigating a family vacation here requires a bit of strategy. In this review, we’re moving past the highlight reel to look at the service, the amenities, and the overall value. Here is everything you need to know about the family escape to decide if it's worth spending your points or cash.

The post Grand Hyatt Baha Mar Review: Is This Family Escape Worth Every Point? appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> Mari on the Map

Grand Hyatt Baha Mar Review: Is This Family Escape Worth Every Point?

The Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is more than just a resort; it’s a massive playground in the heart of Nassau. While the stunning architecture and turquoise waters are a given, navigating a family vacation here requires a bit of strategy. In this review, we’re moving past the highlight reel to look at the service, the amenities, and the overall value. Here is everything you need to know about the family escape to decide if it’s worth spending your points or cash.

Aerial view of the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar resort at dusk, showing the two large cream-colored towers with red roofs, the pool area between them, landscaped groun…Aerial view of the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar resort at dusk, showing the two large cream-colored towers with red roofs, the pool area between them, landscaped grounds, and the calm blue waters of Nassau, Bahamas in the background

What Is Baha Mar?

Baha Mar is a massive beachfront resort complex on Cable Beach in Nassau, Bahamas. It is made up of three hotels: the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, the SLS, and the Rosewood. The Grand Hyatt is the biggest of the three and the most family-friendly, sitting right in the center of the property with easy access to the pools, beach, and the Baha Mar water park.

If you are traveling with kids, Grand Hyatt is the obvious choice. The SLS leans more party-forward, and the Rosewood is quieter and more boutique. Grand Hyatt hits the sweet spot.

Families checking in at the Baha Mar resort lobby in Nassau, Bahamas, with luggage and strollers in the foreground and a Christmas tree visible at the front desk.
Street-level view of a colorful Baha Mar building with blue and white colonial-style architecture, lush tropical greenery, and the Grand Hyatt tower visible in the background.

Getting to Baha Mar

The resort is about 15 minutes from Lynden Pindling International Airport. That is one of the things I appreciated: the airport transfer is painless. The hotel offers an official car service. Alternatively, you can grab a taxi for around $25 to $40 each way depending on your group size. If you want something booked ahead and seamless, a private SUV through a local service runs around $75 round trip and is completely worth it with kids in tow.

Booking the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar on Points

This is where things get interesting, and there is some genuinely important context right now. If you have been collecting World of Hyatt points, the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar has historically been one of the better redemptions out there. Standard rooms have run around 35,000 points per night, against cash rates that can easily hit $800 or more depending on when you go. I have written about why Hyatt is my favorite hotel brand for family travel, and a trip like this is a good example of why.

But here is the update you need to know: Hyatt is moving from 3 pricing tiers to 5 tiers starting May 2026. On high-demand dates, that means some rooms could jump by 33% to 67% in points. A Category 4 stay that used to cost 18,000 points could hit 25,000 at peak. Anything booked before May 20, 2026 locks in at the old rates, so if Baha Mar is on your list, sooner is better.

A few other things worth knowing: if you hold a Category 1 to 4 Free Night Certificate from the Hyatt card, those are still valid even if a hotel is priced at the new top tier rate. And if you are looking at points plus cash options, keep in mind that when points pricing peaks, cash rates are usually peaking, too, so check both before you decide.

If you are a Hyatt Globalist, your perks at this property include late checkout, free breakfast, and no resort fees, which adds up to real savings over a few nights. Hyatt also has a Family Plan Rate where you can sometimes get up to 50% off a second room when traveling with kids. You usually need to call to ask about it. And if you are still building out your hotel strategy, I have a full post on hotels where kids stay free that is worth bookmarking.

Two red Baha Mar branded reusable water bottles on a room desk alongside a card explaining the resort's hydration and sustainability program, at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar.
The World of Hyatt check-in desk at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar with a dedicated Globalist, Explorist, and Discoverist lane sign, and the casino visible in the background.


One thing worth knowing that saved us a lot of money: you do not have to be a Globalist yourself to access some of these perks. Hyatt Globalists can gift a Guest of Honor certificate to someone else, which passes along benefits like free breakfast. That is exactly what happened for us. A friend who holds Globalist status gifted us the certificate, and we got daily breakfast for two adults and two kids at the Regatta Buffet covered. The buffet runs until noon on weekdays, which means if you pace it right, it covers both breakfast and an early lunch. For a resort where food adds up fast, that is a meaningful saving.

The Rooms

The Grand Hyatt Baha Mar has 1,800 guestrooms, including 230 suites ranging from one to three bedrooms. Rooms are newly renovated and feel fresh and modern, with open layouts and contemporary furnishings. Most rooms have a balcony, and while the ocean view is not a straight-on panorama since the towers face slightly to the sides, you get enough of it to feel the Caribbean mood.

Worth noting for bigger families or groups: the West Tower just launched four newly renovated family suites that sleep up to six guests comfortably. Each two-bedroom suite has a king bed, bunk beds, and a living room with a pullout couch. These are now bookable online and are a genuinely good option if you are traveling with multiple kids or combining families for a trip.

One smart feature at check-in: everyone gets waterproof wristbands that work as your room key and are linked to your credit card. No wallet needed at the pool or beach. This sounds like a small thing until you are chasing your child through a water park and realize you left your room card at the towel stand.

A few practical details worth knowing before you arrive: check-in is at 4pm and checkout is at 11am. At check-in, the hotel places a $200 per night incidental hold on your card on top of the room rate, so use a credit card rather than a debit card if you can. Microwaves are not standard but can be rented for a one-time $50 charge if you need one. Babysitting is available but requires 24 hours notice, so if you are planning a dinner on your own, book it as soon as you arrive. Guests are all given branded reusable water bottles in the room and encouraged to follow environmentally-friendly practices throughout their stay.

Renovated Grand Hyatt Baha Mar guest room with two queen beds, deep blue accent walls, ornate white headboards, marble floors, and a balcony with a view of the resort grounds.
Freestanding soaking tub in the marble bathroom of a Grand Hyatt Baha Mar room, with a sliding door opening to the bedroom beyond.
Two wicker chairs and a small side table on a Grand Hyatt Baha Mar room balcony at sunset, with a wide view over Nassau rooftops and palm trees.

The Baha Mar Waterpark (Baha Bay)

Access to the Baha Bay waterpark is included for Grand Hyatt guests, and it was one of our favorite parts of the stay. This is a full water park: wave pool, lazy river, water slides, a surf simulator, and a separate splash zone for younger kids. You can pop in for a short time on every day of your hotel stay, or you can spend the entire day there.

The Baha Bay water park map sign showing the full layout of attractions, slides, pools, food trucks, and amenities at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar resort in Nassau.
Families enjoying the kids' splash pad and multi-level water play structure at Baha Bay water park, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, under a partly cloudy sky.
The wave pool and tall water slide towers at Baha Bay water park at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, with guests floating on blue tubes in Nassau, Bahamas.

We spent a lot of time here, both entire days and parts of days. The lazy river alone is worth mentioning because it is genuinely one of the better ones for kids: long, with enough current to keep things going, but no waterfalls or waves that splash little kids in the face. The wave pool is a hit with kids of all ages.

Families floating on tubes through the lush tropical lazy river at Baha Bay water park, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, surrounded by palm trees and tropical vegetation.
The FlowRider surf simulator at Baha Bay water park, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, with kids attempting to bodyboard on the artificial wave under a blue sky.
Young boy sitting barefoot on a low wall along a crystal-clear canal in the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar grounds, with an arched bridge and palm trees in the background.

If you want an upgraded experience within the water park, there is the Baha Bay Beach Club, a private section with infinity pools and reserved loungers. Chairs include a food and beverage credit that largely offsets the cost, so if you plan on eating lunch and ordering drinks anyway, it is worth looking into. Just know that the best spots book out months in advance.

A young boy in a yellow life jacket landing at the bottom of an orange water slide at Baha Bay water park, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, with a big smile on his face.
A young boy bodyboarding on the FlowRider surf simulator at Baha Bay water park, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, flashing a peace sign with Christmas decorations visible in the background.
Two young boys racing down side-by-side teal water slides into a bright blue pool at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, Nassau, Bahamas.

The Pools

Outside of the waterpark, the Grand Hyatt alone has six pools with different vibes. The standout is the Dean’s Blue Hole pool, which has a cliff jumping spot and a cave-like grotto with windows looking directly into an aquarium. You can swim up and watch sharks and sea turtles from inside the pool, which is genuinely cool and our kids loved it.

View from inside the grotto cave at the Dean's Blue Hole pool at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, looking out through a waterfall curtain at the pool area and palm trees beyond.
The Dean's Blue Hole pool at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, featuring a rock waterfall, cave entrance, and guests swimming under a dramatic cloudy sky with the Rosewood tower in the background.
Guests swimming in one of the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar pools at dusk, with rock formations, a waterfall, and the resort tower visible in the background.

There are also adults-only options if you need a break from the family energy. Loungers can fill up early at peak times, so getting out before 9am helps if you have a spot in mind. However, the staff has a guideline that if a lounge chair is empty for one hour (meaning a person hasn’t sat in it), they will relate the belongings on it so other guests can use them. If you’ve ever been to a resort where chair saving is a competitive sport, you’ll understand how refreshing this was. It meant that we could always approach a staff member that would make sure chairs were available for individuals actually at the pool.

The Beach

Cable Beach is absolutely stunning. The water is warm, calm, and that shade of Caribbean turquoise that does not exist anywhere in the world. It is very swimmable, which matters when you are traveling with young kids who do not want to get knocked over by big waves.

The free beach area has chairs and umbrellas, and we never had a hard time finding a spot, even traveling during peak holiday timing. Towels are available at beach huts, and you can order food and drinks nearby without having to walk back into the hotel. The kayaks and floats are complimentary for hotel guests, which is a nice added touch. The pools and beach close at sunset, so plan your last water session accordingly.

Cable Beach at Baha Mar on a sunny and breezy January day, with a row of navy blue loungers facing the turquoise water and palm trees swaying in the wind.
Wide view of Cable Beach at Baha Mar on a clear blue-sky day, showing calm turquoise water, white sand, a wooden pier, and a small island visible in the distance.

Dining at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar

There are 45 restaurants and bars across the entire Baha Mar property, and as a Grand Hyatt guest, you can dine at all of them. That variety is genuinely impressive and means you are unlikely to get bored. The downside is that the prices are high across the board. Budget accordingly.

A few notes on specifics: Kids 5 and under eat free at several restaurants, but there are a few conditions: a full priced adult entree is required, and only items from the children’s menu are covered. The participating restaurants are Café Boulud, Carna, Cinko, Cleo, Costa, Drift, Katsuya, Marcus, Out Island Bar, The Palms, Regatta Buffet, and Stix Noodle Bar. It is a decent list and worth planning around.

Most bills include a service charge automatically, so read your receipt before you add a tip or you will end up paying far more than you intended.

Outdoor dining terrace at Baha Mar shaded by large canvas sails, with red and white chairs, string lights, and palm trees framing a view of the beach.
Busy restaurant interior at Baha Mar with a large circular bar stacked with liquor bottles serving as the centerpiece, surrounded by guests on bar stools.
Da' Poke Bowl food truck at Baha Bay water park, with guests lining up under a surfboard sign and colorful tiki-style decor in Nassau, Bahamas.
The Regatta breakfast buffet at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, showing a long counter with hot dishes, shrimp, fruits, and pastries with a guest browsing the spread.
Interior of Katsuya restaurant at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar with a large gold calligraphy banner hanging above the sushi bar, where chefs are at work and families are seated.

Make your dinner reservations as early as possible, ideally before you arrive. A few weeks out and you will find several of the better restaurants fully booked during prime hours. Some standouts across the property: Marcus for a splurge dinner if you can get a table (worth it, especially with outdoor seating on the beach), Pizza Lab for quick casual dinner (plus they have a takeout option), and the Swimming Pig for casual food done well. Sugar Factory is a full sensory experience and the kids will love it once, even if you come out slightly overwhelmed. If you go to Katsuya, ask for the chef’s table, so your kids can watch them make the sushi.

Breakfast as a Globalist is covered at the Regatta buffet or, more recently, at Cafe Madeline and Palms Cafe.

Cucumber-wrapped sushi roll with tuna, salmon, and avocado served on a blue ceramic plate with soy sauce at Katsuya, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar.
Baklava served with vanilla ice cream, pistachio crumble, and candied citrus on a blue-rimmed ceramic plate at a Baha Mar restaurant.
Warm chocolate brownie topped with a scoop of peanut butter ice cream in a white ramekin at a Baha Mar restaurant, with a baklava dessert visible in the background.
A rectangular cheese pizza fresh from the oven at Pizza Lab inside the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, served on a metal tray.
Grilled octopus plated with romesco sauce, fennel, and herb oil at a Baha Mar restaurant in Nassau, Bahamas.
Seared halloumi in a cast iron skillet with herb sauce at a Baha Mar restaurant, with a colorful Moroccan-style dish visible in the background.
Moroccan-spiced chicken with olives, preserved lemon, saffron rice, and fresh cilantro served in a traditional hand-painted ceramic bowl at a Baha Mar restaurant.
Three crispy fried fish tacos served on a dark plate with a wedge of lemon at a Baha Mar restaurant in Nassau, Bahamas.
A sauced chicken sandwich served with a basket of thin-cut fries and fresh toppings on a dark plate at a Baha Mar restaurant.

Activities and Things to Do

Beyond the beach and waterpark, there is genuinely a lot happening. The flamingo parade runs daily at 9:30am at Flamingo Cay and is free. The Sanctuary has sea turtles, stingrays, and nurse sharks with hands-on options at different price points.

A flock of pink flamingos wading in the shallow pond at Flamingo Cay in the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar grounds, surrounded by lush tropical greenery and purple bougainvillea.
Two kids playing oversized lawn games including giant Connect Four at Baha Mar, surrounded by palm trees and resort grounds.

The Explorers Kids Club is available for ages 3 to 12 at around $130 for a 7-hour session, or shorter blocks for less.

There is also mini golf, tennis and pickleball, arcade games (they run $3 to $5 per game so set a budget before you walk in), a jazz bar, and a nightly dancing water fountain show that is free and runs from 6pm to 10pm.

Two young brothers standing next to a nurse shark gliding through the shallow water at the Baha Mar Sanctuary in Nassau, Bahamas.
Four large Aldabra tortoises resting together on a sandy surface at the Baha Mar Sanctuary in Nassau, Bahamas.
Young boy smiling and holding a large starfish at the Baha Mar Sanctuary touch tank experience in Nassau, Bahamas.

The resort also deliveries a printout of daily activities to your room each day (you can also find this on the app). The activities are kid-friendly and mostly planned around holiday happenings. We were there at Christmastime and genuinely enjoyed the daily themed events.

ESPA at Baha Mar is excellent if you have a chance to make it there. Beautiful space, great staff. If you are going as an adult or taking a trip like this solo with the kids, put the spa on the list and do not skip it.

The Casino

It’s worth noting that the entire lobby floor level of the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is based around a casino. This was genuinely surprising to me considering that it’s a family-friendly resort. You can walk around the casino (there are walkways on either side), but since the resort is huge, and the casino is prominent, walking through it is the fastest for little legs. While no one stopped us and our children from walking through the casino floor, our son was scolded for stopping with genuine interest to watch a table game. The dealer made it clear that minors even watching was illegal, and that we could not linger.

The casino at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar in Nassau, The Bahamas

Is the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar All Inclusive?

No, the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is not all inclusive. Everything beyond your room rate is charged separately: meals, drinks, activities, spa treatments. This is one of the most important things to understand before you book, because it is easy to assume that a resort with this many amenities bundles them together.

Budget for at least $150 to $200 per adult per day on food and drinks if you are eating at the restaurants and having drinks. More if you are doing excursions or upgraded pool experiences. Going in with realistic numbers makes the trip more enjoyable. The Bahamas is expensive in general, and Baha Mar reflects that.

The water park access is included for Grand Hyatt guests, which is a real perk given that day passes for non-guests run around $160 per person. If you are a family spending multiple days here and using the water park daily, that is significant value built into your room rate.

My Honest Take

This trip delivered exactly what I needed: warm, fun, the kids were occupied and happy, and I got to sit in the sun.

The Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is a genuinely great family resort. The amenities are lovely, the food is delicious, there are activities around every corner, and the fact that everything is all on the property means you can relax without feeling the need to be on the go.

Is it expensive? Yes. Go in preparing for that. If you are holding Hyatt or Chase points and have been looking for a tropical, reasonably priced redemption, this is a great one.

Pastel sunset view from a Grand Hyatt Baha Mar balcony looking toward Cable Beach, with palm trees and neighboring Nassau hotels visible in the foreground.

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Final Thoughts

If Baha Mar is on your radar, my honest advice is to move on it sooner rather than later, especially if you are planning to use points. With the pricing changes coming May 20, 2026, what you lock in now is going to look a lot better than what you pay later.

If you have questions about planning a trip to Nassau, send me an email or a DM on Instagram. I am always happy to help you travel more for less!

The post Grand Hyatt Baha Mar Review: Is This Family Escape Worth Every Point? appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> How to Maximize Points with Shopping Portals and Credit Card Bonuses https://marionthemap.com/maximize-points-with-shopping-portals/ Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:44:06 +0000 https://marionthemap.com/?p=2592 Mari on the Map

How to Maximize Points with Shopping Portals and Credit Card Bonuses

When it comes to maximizing your points and miles for travel, you might be overlooking one of the easiest ways to boost your balance: online shopping portals. These tools have helped us earn extra rewards for purchases our family is already making, and when used strategically, they can be a significant points earning strategy.

The post How to Maximize Points with Shopping Portals and Credit Card Bonuses appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> Mari on the Map

How to Maximize Points with Shopping Portals and Credit Card Bonuses

This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.

When it comes to maximizing your points and miles for travel, you might be overlooking one of the easiest ways to boost your balance: online shopping portals. These tools have helped us earn extra rewards for purchases our family is already making, and when used strategically, they can be a significant points earning strategy.

Read on for my comprehensive guide on how online shopping portals work, why they’re valuable for families, some of our favorite shopping portals, and how you can use them to supercharge your points-earning game.

What Are Online Shopping Portals?

Online shopping portals are websites that partner with retailers to offer cashback or points/miles for purchases. Instead of shopping directly at your favorite retailer’s website, you start your purchase through a portal, which tracks your transaction and rewards you accordingly.

For example: If a shopping portal offers 3 points per dollar at Macy’s, and you spend $100, you’ll earn 300 points on top of any points your credit card earns via a category multiplier. This is called “stacking” since you are earning rewards from more than one source on a single purchase.

Why Are Shopping Portals Valuable?

  • Double Dip on Rewards: You’ll earn rewards from the shopping portal and your credit card.
  • Stackable Deals: Combine shopping portal rewards with sales, promo codes, and other discounts for maximum value. You can even still use promo codes or coupons at checkout.
  • Strategic Points Earning: You can choose portals tied to your preferred loyalty program, like earning Southwest Airlines miles or American Express Membership Rewards points.
  • Minimal Effort: Most portals are user-friendly, and you’re simply adding one extra step to your shopping routine by logging into that site and clicking over to where you want to shop.
Close-up of a person holding a gold credit card and a smartphone displaying an online shopping page, showcasing digital purchasing. shopping portals

Compare Your Offers Before You Shop

If you’re serious about earning points and miles from your everyday online shopping, SaveWise should be your first stop. This free tool compares all the major shopping portals we’ll review here — like Rakuten, Alaska Mileage Plan, American Airlines AAdvantage eShopping, and more — to show you which one is offering the best bonus right now.

Instead of guessing which portal will give you the most points, SaveWise lays it all out in seconds. Just search for the store where you plan to shop, and you’ll see the current cash back or miles rates across multiple portals. SaveWise also offers a paid premium version where you can see offer history to help time your shopping to when points or cashback offers are highest. CashbackMonitor.com also offers a similar offer comparison tool without the upgraded offer history option.

Popular Online Shopping Portals (and Our Favorites!)

1. Airline Shopping Portals

Airlines like Delta, United, Southwest, American Airlines, and more have their own portals where you can earn miles:

  • Example: Spend $150 at Macy’s via the American Airlines AAdvantage Shopping portal offering 5 miles per dollar, and you’ll rack up 750 miles.
  • Best For: Travelers working toward a specific airline redemption. Since we now live nearest to an American Airlines hub, we use the AAdvantage Shopping portal often, including the browser extension.

2. Credit Card Rewards Portals

Card issuers like Chase, American Express, and Capital One also offer shopping portals where you can earn additional rewards:

  • Example: Use the Chase portal to earn bonus points at stores like Apple, Sephora, or Walmart.
  • Best For: Maximizing transferable points programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards or Amex Membership Rewards. We love earning Chase Ultimate Rewards and find them so valuable, especially for booking Hyatt stays, so this is another go-to strategy for us.

3. Cashback Portals

If you prefer cashback over travel points or you love American Express or Bilt, portals like Rakuten (formerly Ebates) or TopCashback are excellent options:

  • Example: Rakuten lets you earn Amex Membership Rewards or Bilt points instead of cashback when linked to your account. You must be a current Amex card holder to earn Amex points, but you do not have to be a Bilt cardholder to earn Bilt points. Both allow you to transfer points to hotels and airlines for nearly free travel.
  • Best For: Flexible rewards that can either offset expenses or fund your travel plans. I’ve been using Rakuten for years, previously to earn cashback, but I recently switched it over to earning Memership Rewards.

Pro tip: While there is the option to stack with credit card bonuses and category multipliers, you can typically only shop through one shopping portal at a time. Clicking on one and then clicking on another will typically deactivate the first one you clicked on.

Screenshot of Rakuten's homepage

Maximizing Points with Credit Card Linked Offers

Shopping portals are an easy and rewarding way to earn extra points, but you can further boost your earnings by activating credit card linked offers. These bonuses are tied to specific categories, promotions, or rotating offers that can make your online purchases even more rewarding by using the specific card the offer is on. Here’s how to activate your offers and make the most of both shopping portals and credit card rewards.

How to Activate Offers on Your Credit Cards

1. Check Your Credit Card’s Website or App

Most credit card issuers make it easy to activate offers directly through their website or mobile app:

  • Log into Your Account: Start by logging into your credit card account either through the website or the mobile app.
  • Look for Promotions or Offers: On the dashboard, look for a section related to rewards or bonuses. This may be labeled as “Earn More,” “Bonus Categories,” or “Special Offers.”
  • Activate the Offer: Once you’ve found the available bonuses or categories, there should be a button or link to activate the offer. Some issuers, like Chase, even offer the ability to activate rotating categories for each quarter.

Example: Chase Freedom Flex offers rotating 5% cashback on specific categories each quarter (like groceries or dining). To activate, go to the “Rewards” section in your Chase account, select the current quarter’s offer, and click to activate. If you hold a Chase Ultimate Rewards earning card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred, you can also turn your cashback from the Chase Freedom Flex into points.

If you want an easy way to activate all of your card linked offers at once, CardPointers‘ browser plug-in offers this capability.

CardPointers browser plug in
Screenshot

2. Check Your Card’s Offers Page

Some credit cards provide detailed information about their rewards program through a separate “Rewards” section or tab. For example, the American Express Membership Rewards program has a dedicated portal where cardholders can review available promotions and activate specific bonuses.

  • Look for Special Categories: These might include extra points for certain purchases, such as travel bookings or grocery shopping, or even at certain retailers.
  • Activate in Advance: Most rewards bonuses must be activated in advance of a purchase. For instance, one of my cards was recently offering 5x points back at CVS, but I had to activate that offer in my bank’s website before I ran by card at CVS.
American Express Offers page

3. Sign Up for Alerts and Email Notifications

To make sure you never miss an opportunity to activate a bonus, sign up for email alerts or push notifications from your credit card issuer. Many issuers send out notifications when new offers or promotions become available. These reminders can help you stay on top of activation deadlines. All of the credit cards I hold send me emails multiple times a month to let me know what bonuses are available, but it is on you to go in and activate them.

American Express Offers email example

4. Monitor for Targeted Offers

Some credit cards may also have targeted offers based on your spending habits. These offers are often personalized and can give you additional rewards on specific categories like online shopping or gas purchases. Be sure to check your account regularly to spot these special offers.

  • Log In Regularly: Even if you don’t see any obvious promotions, check your account frequently for updates or bonus offers.
  • Activate as Soon as Possible: Targeted offers may expire after a certain time frame, so activating them as soon as you see them is crucial.

5. Track Your Bonus Categories and Rewards

Once you’ve activated any rewards bonuses, it’s important to keep track of which categories are active, and for how long. Some credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, allow you to track your progress in earning rewards within specific categories right from the account dashboard.

Category spending tracking in the Chase portal

How to Use Online Shopping Portals and Credit Card Bonuses Strategically

1. Compare Offers Across Portals and Cards

Not all shopping portals offer the same rewards for the same retailer. By comparing offers across multiple portals, you can ensure you’re getting the highest rate possible.

2. Combine Shopping Portals and Credit Card Offers

Maximize your points by pairing your shopping portal purchase with a credit card that offers bonus points for online shopping or specific retailers.

Example: Use Rakuten for 6% cashback or (6x Membership Rewards) at Instacart and a credit card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred 3x on online groceries, combined with Chase card linked offer of 5x back at Instacart.

3. Take Advantage of Portal Bonuses

Shopping portals often have special promotions that offer extra miles or cashback after you meet a minimum spend within a set period. These promotions can be a great way to get bonus rewards on top of your regular earnings.

Example: “Earn 500 bonus United miles after spending $200 through the shopping portal in the next 90 days.” Be on the lookout for these limited-time offers, as they can add significant value to your purchases.

4. Bookmark Your Favorite Portals and Set Reminders

It’s easy to forget to use a portal before making a purchase, but there are ways to keep it top of mind. Bookmark your favorite shopping portals or install browser extensions that remind you to use a portal before checking out. For example, Rakuten offers extensions that automatically alert you if a store is eligible for rewards.

Shopping bags in neutral tones on a black chair, next to a laptop on a white table

Pro Tips for Staying Organized

1. Use the CardPointers App

Apps like CardPointers track your cards’ best categories and remind you of rewards rates for purchases. Combine this with your portal strategy for ultimate earning potential.

2. Use Browser Extensions

Many portals like Rakuten offer browser extensions that alert you when a store is eligible for rewards. This ensures you never miss an opportunity.

3. Keep Track of Transactions

Use a spreadsheet or note-taking app to track portal purchases and ensure points are credited correctly. Save screenshots of the offers you activated into a folder on your computer or phone. Most portals process rewards correctly within 30-90 days, but it’s good to have the backup if there’s a discrepancy.

A miniature shopping cart placed on a laptop, alongside credit cards, against a pink background.

Final Thoughts: Earn Points on What You Already Buy

Online shopping portals and credit card linked offers are a simple but powerful way to accumulate way more points and miles with your everyday spending. By strategically using both, you can turn everyday shopping into significant rewards. Whether you’re buying groceries, clothes, or gadgets, those purchases can be converted into your next dream vacation, hotel stay, or other rewards.

With a little planning and the right tools—like apps and browser extensions—you can easily maximize your points earning potential and stay organized. So, next time you’re about to make an online purchase, don’t forget to start at a shopping portal, use your best credit card for that category, and check your credit card’s website for additional offers. The points you earn will add up, and before you know it, you’ll be booking your next family vacation on points and miles.

Please note that this article contains affiliate links, and I may earn a referral commission if you choose to apply through my links. As a small business, these earnings help me to continue to bring you content like this at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

The post How to Maximize Points with Shopping Portals and Credit Card Bonuses appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> Why Points Are Better Than Cashback (and Why You’ll Travel Further Because of It) https://marionthemap.com/points-vs-cashback/ Thu, 09 Oct 2025 16:44:35 +0000 https://marionthemap.com/?p=4294 Mari on the Map

Why Points Are Better Than Cashback (and Why You’ll Travel Further Because of It)

People often ask me why I prefer points over cashback — especially when cashback feels so simple and straightforward. I get it. Seeing a flat percentage show up in your account feels tangible and easy. But if you love to travel, you’re leaving serious value (and unforgettable experiences) on the table.

The post Why Points Are Better Than Cashback (and Why You’ll Travel Further Because of It) appeared first on Mari on the Map.

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Why Points Are Better Than Cashback (and Why You’ll Travel Further Because of It)

This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.

People often ask me why I prefer points over cashback — especially when cashback feels so simple and straightforward. I get it. Seeing a flat percentage show up in your account feels tangible and easy. But if you love to travel, you’re leaving serious value (and unforgettable experiences) on the table.

Are points better than cashback?

For travelers — yes. While cashback offers a fixed return (usually 1–2%), points and miles can deliver 2–6x more value when redeemed strategically for flights and hotels. In short: cashback saves money; points unlock more value, making your money go further.

Why Points and Miles Offer More Value Than Cashback

Let’s break it down. Cashback rewards are simple — you earn a fixed percentage (like 1.5%) back on everything you buy. It’s predictable but capped.

Points, on the other hand, can multiply in value depending on how you use them. That’s because not all points are created equal. When you redeem travel rewards wisely — like transferring them to an airline or hotel partner — you can easily get 2X, 3X, or even 5X the return you’d get from straight cashback.

For example:

  • A flight might cost 40,000 points, with a cash value of $800.
  • Those same 40,000 points if cashed out would get you $400.

The value comes from the higher return you get for using your points for travel instead of simply taking the cash.

A person holding several premium travel credit cards, including Chase Sapphire and American Express, fan-style in their hand.

What’s the Difference Between Points and Cashback?

At the simplest level:

  • Cashback gives you a fixed return — usually 1–2% of what you spend.
  • Points and miles can fluctuate in value depending on how you redeem them.

For example, $1,000 in spending at 2% cashback gives you $20.
That same $1,000 on a travel rewards card earning 3x points = 3,000 points.

If those points are worth 2 cents each when transferred to an airline partner, that’s $60 in travel value — triple what you’d earn in cashback.

That’s the first big difference: flexibility and potential value.

The Math: Cents Per Point (CPP) and Real-Life Examples

To really understand why points win, you need to know one key concept: cents per point, or CPP.

Formula:
(Value of redemption ÷ number of points used) × 100 = CPP

Let’s say you book a flight that costs $900 cash or 45,000 points.

  • $900 ÷ 45,000 = 0.02, or 2 cents per point (2 CPP).

That’s a 2% return — and that’s before counting the points you earned from the purchase itself or from card bonuses.

Compare that to a flat 1.5% cashback card — the travel redemption already wins by 33%, and that’s a conservative example. Many premium redemptions (like business-class flights or luxury hotels) can easily hit 4–6 CPP or more.

Real Example: Family Travel for a Fraction of the Cost

When we took our family to Europe, flights were priced around $4,000 total. Instead, we transferred points to Air France Flying Blue and booked them for 120,000 points and $400 in taxes.

That’s roughly 3 CPP, or the equivalent of getting $3 back for every $1 spent — far better than any cashback card could dream of. For comparison, you would have to spend $200,000 on a 2% cashback card to earn those same $4,000.

And it’s not just flights — we’ve stayed in beautiful hotels through Hyatt for free using the same strategy.

Family of four stands in front of colorful homes and a canal in Copenhagen, Denmark
Family of four stands in front of the Tower of London, England

Why Points Feel Better Than Cashback: The Psychology of Rewards

Here’s the part no one talks about — and why points keep people more engaged and consistent over time.

Cashback is transactional. Points are transformational.

Cashback is instant gratification. You earn a few dollars here and there — nice, but forgettable.
Points, on the other hand, are aspirational currency. They represent experiences, freedom, and travel moments that feel priceless.

Think about it:

  • $50 cashback disappears on groceries.
  • 50,000 points can turn into a family weekend at a beachfront resort.

That emotional payoff is powerful. It’s what keeps people motivated to learn, plan, and spend smarter. And if you’re in the market to master points and miles, I teach a course that will be perfect for you. Join the waitlist here to be notified when we reopen.

The “Dream Trip Effect”

When people start earning points, they’re often saving toward something exciting — a bucket-list destination, a family reunion, a romantic getaway. That goal-oriented motivation turns everyday spending into progress toward something that actually matters.

And when you finally board that flight you paid for entirely with points? It feels like winning a game you designed yourself.

A miniature shopping cart placed on a laptop, alongside credit cards, against a pink background.

When Cashback Might Still Win

To be completely transparent, cashback has its place. You might prefer it if:

  • You don’t pay off your balances in full each month (interest cancels out any rewards).
  • You rarely travel and don’t want to manage multiple points or miles programs.
  • You prefer simplicity over strategy.

Otherwise, points are the clear winner — especially for anyone who wants to travel more for less.

Cards Worth Considering

If you’re ready to start earning points strategically, here are a few categories of cards that consistently deliver great value:

Pro tip: Don’t pick a card just for the sign-up bonus — choose one that fits your lifestyle and spending patterns.

The Bottom Line: Cashback Feels Good. Points Change the Way You Travel.

Cashback rewards are about saving money. Points and miles are about creating value — unlocking experiences you might never have justified paying cash for.

If your goal is to make travel more accessible, comfortable, and frequent, then points aren’t just better than cashback — they’re your ticket to seeing more of the world for less.

View of a sleek black business credit card with a contactless payment icon on a white background. Points

Frequently Asked Questions

Are points better than cashback for travel?

Yes — for travelers, points usually deliver 2–6x more value than cashback when redeemed for flights and hotels. Cashback gives a fixed return, while points can be leveraged for outsized travel experiences.

What is cents per point (CPP)?

CPP stands for cents per point — a way to measure how much value you’re getting from your points. Divide the cash price of your redemption by the number of points used, then multiply by 100.

Which credit cards offer the best travel rewards?

Cards that earn transferable points, like Chase Sapphire Preferred® or American Express® Gold, usually offer the best long-term flexibility and value.

When is cashback a better choice than points?

Cashback is better if you don’t travel often, carry a balance month to month, or prefer simple rewards with no strategy required.

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Ready to start your points journey?

Check out my guide to earning points through everyday spending and learn how my family earned 1 million points in a single year — without changing our budget.

If you have any questions or need further advice feel free to email me or send me a message on Instagram. I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you.

Please note that this article contains affiliate links, and I may earn a referral commission if you choose to apply through my links. As a small business, these earnings help me to continue to bring you content like this at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

The post Why Points Are Better Than Cashback (and Why You’ll Travel Further Because of It) appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> Southwest Companion Pass Guide: Your Ticket to Free Flights for Family Travel https://marionthemap.com/southwest-companion-pass-guide/ Sat, 23 Aug 2025 21:06:06 +0000 https://marionthemap.com/?p=2579 Mari on the Map

Southwest Companion Pass Guide: Your Ticket to Free Flights for Family Travel

The Southwest Companion Pass is a must-have for anyone who loves to travel with a friend or family member—especially if you're looking to stretch your budget further. With this pass, a designated companion flies with you for free—you just cover their taxes and fees, which are typically only $5.60 each way on Southwest. As you can see, getting BOGO (buy one, get one) tickets on every flight for the duration of your companion pass can drastically reduce the cost of family vacations.

The post Southwest Companion Pass Guide: Your Ticket to Free Flights for Family Travel appeared first on Mari on the Map.

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Southwest Companion Pass Guide: Your Ticket to Free Flights for Family Travel

This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.

The Southwest Companion Pass is a must-have for anyone who loves to travel with a friend or family member—especially if you’re looking to stretch your budget further. With this pass, a designated companion flies with you for free—you just cover their taxes and fees, which are as little as $5.60 each way on domestic flights. For families, securing a free companion fare can significantly reduce travel costs.

Starting in early 2026, Southwest is moving from open seating to assigned seats. This change impacts the process of a pass holder and their companion sitting together. The information in this guide has been updated to reflect the new policies that take effect in 2026, including new benefits for credit card holders to secure early seat selection.

Fun fact: we used our Southwest Companion passes to get us to and from Hawaii, in addition to many other destinations. Here’s everything you need to know about how to earn it, and why it’s the perfect perk for family getaways.

What is the Southwest Companion Pass?

The Southwest Companion Pass is a game-changing benefit from Southwest Airlines. It allows you to bring one companion on all of your flights for free—paying only taxes and fees (typically around $5.60 on domestic flights). What’s great about this pass is that it can be earned with just two credit card sign-up bonuses and lasts for the rest of the calendar year in which you earned it, plus all of the following calendar year. For families, this means up to two years of free flights for one of your crew!

Keep in mind that I only recommend trying to earn the Southwest Companion Pass if your home airport has multiple Southwest flight options to places you want to travel to. Make sure to check the Southwest route map to confirm the Companion Pass will support your upcoming travel plans before trying to earn it.

How to Earn the Southwest Companion Pass

To earn the Southwest Companion Pass, you need to earn 135,000 Rapid Rewards (Southwest’s loyalty program) points in one calendar year, or complete 100 qualifying one-way flights. For most people, accumulating points is the faster and more strategic path. Thankfully, cardholders of a co-branded Southwest credit card get an annual 10,000-point boost that counts toward the Companion Pass requirement, so you only need to earn the remaining 125,000 points. 

Credit cards are the most effective way to hit that point threshold quickly. However, applying for them requires strategy due to Chase’s application rules. One of the most common strategies involves opening one personal and one business Southwest card from Chase to secure two welcome bonuses. It’s crucial to understand Chase’s unofficial 5/24 rule, which limits approvals for most Chase cards if you have opened five or more new credit cards from any issuer in the past 24 months. You also can’t have received a bonus on a Southwest personal card within the last 24 months. Luckily, Chase business cards typically don’t count toward your 5/24 total, making a personal + business card approach a good option for those managing their card applications. 

Here’s where credit cards come into play: applying for two Southwest cards can help you hit that 135,000-point threshold. For example, by opening the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card and the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card, you can earn points through the welcome bonuses, everyday spending, and even referrals.

Two young children, wearing headphones, are comfortably seated on a Southwest plane.

Timing Your Points

The timing of your card applications is key! The Companion Pass is valid for the remainder of the calendar year in which you earn it, plus all of the following calendar year. So, if you earn it early in the calendar year, you can enjoy nearly two years of free companion flights. I earned my first Southwest Companion pass in February, meaning I had 11 months of that year with the pass, plus the entire next calendar year. If you earn it late in the year, you’ll still get the remainder of that calendar year, plus the following full year of benefits.

Card Strategies for Earning the Companion Pass

There are several ways to strategize earning the Companion Pass with credit cards. One of the most effective involves opening a business and personal card in late October to early November. You should then carefully time your spending so the points post to your Rapid Rewards account in January, which maximizes your pass’s benefits window for nearly two full years.

**Advanced strategy** If you’re aiming to maximize your points quickly, applying for two Southwest business credit cards can be very efficient. Since Chase business cards generally do not count towards your 5/24 limit, this can be a great way to accumulate a substantial welcome bonus without using up a 5/24 slot for a personal card. 

While it is possible to apply for more than one Chase business card, you should do so with caution. Applying for multiple cards within a short timeframe can sometimes trigger denials. It is generally safer to space out applications. Remember, you must be under the 5/24 rule to be approved for a Chase business card in the first place. 

Important note: Anyone with a US social security number can be eligible for business cards even if you don’t own an official business with an EIN. If you have a legitimate side hustle, freelance work, or other for-profit activity, you can apply as a sole proprietor.

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Referral Bonuses: Double the Fun

If you have a spouse or partner, you can use referral bonuses to earn points toward your passes. Chase’s Refer-a-Friend program allows you to earn bonus points for each successful referral for any Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card. 

As of 2025, you can earn 20,000 bonus points for each friend or business that is approved for a new Southwest card through your unique referral link. This bonus applies to all Southwest personal and business cards. There is a cap of 100,000 referral points you can earn per calendar year. 

Using referral bonuses with a spouse (or “player 2“) is an effective strategy. You can refer each other for cards, combining the sign-up bonuses and referral points to reach the 135,000-point threshold faster. Just remember that it can take several weeks for the referral bonus points to post to your account after the new card is approved.

Which Cards Earn the Most Points?

Southwest offers several credit cards that earn Rapid Rewards points:

These cards offer varying point bonuses for sign-up, so it’s essential to choose the cards with the best current offers to maximize your point earnings.

A Southwest Airlines plane in flight, captured against a clear blue sky, with landing gear deployed. Southwest Companion Pass

Can you earn the Companion Pass with one card?

Yes, it’s possible to earn the Companion Pass with just one card, though it will take more time and effort. You’ll need to earn points through regular spending, flying, and possibly using the Southwest shopping portal or earning referral bonuses. While this method requires more work, it’s an option if you want to keep your credit card applications to a minimum.

Southwest also occasionally offers a Promotional Companion Pass, which will allow you to earn a one-year Companion Pass by opening only one personal card. This promotion was offered in February for the last two years, and once earned, the Promotional Companion Pass was good for one year, from February to the following February.

My Personal Southwest Companion Pass Strategy

When I earned my Southwest Companion Pass, the two cards that made the most sense to earn me the points I needed were the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card and the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card. Let’s breakdown what each of these cards offers and why their annual fees can be worth every penny.

Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card

  • Points Earning (effective July 2025):
    • 4x points on Southwest purchases.
    • 2x points at gas stations and restaurants.
    • 2x points on local transit, rideshare, and commuting.
    • 2x points on hotel accommodations booked directly with the hotel.
    • 1x points on everything else.
  • Annual Fee: $299
    • At first glance, $299 might seem steep, but check out what you get (beginning January 27, 2026):
      • Complimentary Preferred Seat selection at booking.*
      • Unlimited Extra Legroom upgrades within 48 hours of departure.*
      • Free first checked bag.*
      • Earlier boarding with Group 5.*
      • 9,000 anniversary points every year—valued at roughly $135 toward Southwest flights.
      • 25% back on inflight purchases.
      • 10,000 Companion Pass® Qualifying Points boost each year.
      • 2,500 Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs) for every $5,000 spent.
      • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® reimbursement (up to $120 every 4 years).

*These new perks apply to the cardholder and up to eight companions on the same reservation, when available.

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

  • Points Earning:
    • 2x points on Southwest purchases.
    • 2x points at gas stations and grocery stores on the first $5,000 in combined purchases each anniversary year.
    • 1x points on everything else.
  • Annual Fee: $99
    • The perks here are still valuable (beginning January 27, 2026):
      • 3,000 anniversary points—worth around $45 in Southwest flights.
      • 10% flight discount promo code each year, excluding Basic fares.
      • Free first checked bag.*
      • Earlier boarding with Group 5.*
      • Complimentary standard seat selection within 48 hours of departure, for flights operating in 2026 and beyond.
      • No foreign transaction fees.

*These new perks apply to the cardholder and up to eight companions on the same reservation, when available.

A young child sits in an airport lounge, looking out at a suthwest airplane parked at the gate on a sunny day. Southwest companion pass

What are “Southwest purchases”?

“Southwest purchases” are transactions made directly with Southwest Airlines that earn bonus points on your Rapid Rewards credit card. Since July 2025, this category includes:

  • Flights booked directly with Southwest Airlines (domestic and international) on Southwest.com or via the mobile app.
  • Vacation packages purchased through Southwest Vacations.
  • Inflight purchases, like WiFi, snacks, or drinks.
  • Southwest gift cards purchased directly from Southwest.com.
  • Upgraded boardings purchased at the gate, during check-in, or via the app (note that some credit cards with complimentary upgraded boarding credits will see those credits expire on December 31, 2025). 

Keep in mind that Southwest purchases do not usually include things like gift card purchases or bookings made through third-party travel agencies (e.g., Expedia or Priceline). Always book directly with Southwest to ensure your purchases qualify for those higher point earnings.

Why Annual Fees Are Worth It

I know, I know—no one likes annual fees. But here’s the deal: when you’re working toward a goal like the Companion Pass or stacking up perks, the value of the benefits can easily outweigh the cost of the fee. With these two cards, you’re not just paying for points—you’re getting a lot of perks that can quickly cover what you’ve spent on the fee.

So, if you’re serious about earning the Southwest Companion Pass, these cards deserve a spot in your wallet.

View from a Southwest Airlines plane flying from Oahu to Maui, below a blue ocean, scattered clouds, and the Hawaiian coastline.

Southwest Card Eligibility

Before you apply, it’s crucial to understand the eligibility requirements, which are set by Chase.

Business Card Rule: The 24-month bonus rule works differently for Southwest business cards. You can still apply for another different business card, and you can reapply for the same business card after 24 months from the date you last received the bonus.

The 5/24 Rule: Chase’s unofficial “5/24 rule” is a major factor. If you have opened five or more new credit card accounts (from any issuer) within the last 24 months, your application will almost certainly be denied for a new Southwest card.

Personal Card Bonus Rule: You cannot hold a personal Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card and be approved for a new bonus from another personal Southwest card. If you received a welcome bonus on any personal Southwest card within the last 24 months, you are not eligible for a bonus on any other personal Southwest card, even if you have since canceled the original card.

Personal Card Strategy: If you want to get another personal card, you must first cancel your existing personal Southwest card. Then, you can apply for a different personal card (e.g., from the Plus to the Priority) after waiting at least 30 days, provided you have not earned a bonus on a personal card in the last 24 months.

Final Thoughts

The Southwest Companion Pass is one of the best ways to travel for less with your family. By earning just 135,000 points in a year, you can get nearly two calendar years of free flights for a loved one, effectively getting buy one, get one (nearly) free flights every time you fly. With the right credit card strategy, earning this pass is totally doable. If you love to travel with your family or a friend, this perk should definitely be on your radar!

If you have any questions or need further advice feel free to email me or send me a message on Instagram. I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you.

Please note that this article contains affiliate links, and I may earn a referral commission if you choose to apply through my links. As a small business, these earnings help me to continue to bring you content like this at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

The post Southwest Companion Pass Guide: Your Ticket to Free Flights for Family Travel appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> What Is the 5/24 Rule? Learn How to Work with It & Maximize Your Rewards https://marionthemap.com/what-is-the-5-24-rule/ Wed, 23 Apr 2025 01:12:40 +0000 https://marionthemap.com/?p=2594 Mari on the Map

What Is the 5/24 Rule? Learn How to Work with It & Maximize Your Rewards

I get it: sometimes navigating the world of credit cards can feel like trying to solve a complex puzzle. One of the trickiest pieces? Chase’s 5/24 rule. Whether you’re a seasoned rewards collector or just starting to dip your toes into the world of credit card points, understanding this rule is crucial for maximizing your rewards potential. Let’s break it down; I promise it won’t be as intimidating as it sounds.

The post What Is the 5/24 Rule? Learn How to Work with It & Maximize Your Rewards appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> Mari on the Map

What Is the 5/24 Rule? Learn How to Work with It & Maximize Your Rewards

This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.

I get it: sometimes navigating the world of credit cards can feel like trying to solve a complex puzzle. One of the trickiest pieces? Chase’s 5/24 rule. Whether you’re a seasoned rewards collector or just starting to dip your toes into the world of credit card points, understanding this rule is crucial for maximizing your rewards potential. Let’s break it down; I promise it won’t be as intimidating as it sounds.

What Exactly Is 5/24 Rule?

Put simply, Chase’s 5/24 rule means that if you’ve opened five or more credit cards from any bank within the past 24 months, your application for a new Chase card will automatically be denied.

It’s not just Chase cards that count toward this limit—cards from any bank count. So, if you’ve been busy collecting cards, it’s probably time to watch your 5/24 status.

Why Does 5/24 Rule Matter?

Your 5/24 status matters because Chase is home to some of the most rewarding credit cards on the market. The Chase Sapphire Preferred®, Chase Freedom Flex®, and Ink Business Preferred® credit cards are all great options for earning points, miles, and cash back. By staying under 5/24 rule, you can unlock valuable sign-up bonuses and take advantage of top-tier travel rewards, rather than missing out because you’ve hit that five-card threshold.

How to Keep Track of Your 5/24 Status

Good news: You don’t have to do it all manually! The CardPointers app can help you stay on top of your 5/24 status, among many other amazing features for rewards travelers. Here’s how it works:

  • Track new cards: When you apply for a new card, just log the details in the app.
  • Automatic updates: The app tracks your 5/24 status and tells you when cards fall off (after 24 months).
  • Beyond 5/24: It also keeps tabs on things like sign-up bonuses and helps you understand which card to use to max your rewards.
Close-up of a U.S. passport, Chase Sapphire Preferred® card, and a laptop on a desk, representing essential tools for travel planning and rewards.

Building Your Card Strategy Around 5/24 Rule

Having a plan is key to navigating 5/24 successfully. Here’s the strategy I recommend for maximize your rewards while staying within the rule:

1. Space Out Your Applications

While Chase doesn’t officially require you to wait between applications, it’s smart to wait around 90 days between all credit card applications. This will help protect your credit score and keep your record looking polished for future applications.

2. Make the Most of Referrals

If you have a Player 2—a spouse, partner, or family member who travels with you—take advantage of referral bonuses. Both of you can refer each other to cards, earning extra points on top of your regular sign-up bonuses. Plus, it keeps both of your 5/24 counts in check, making it easier to work around the rule.

3. Business Cards Are Your Secret Weapon

A little-known tip is that business cards typically don’t count toward your 5/24 status. This means you can open business cards and stay under 5/24, which means maximizing your rewards. For example, Chase Business credit cards like Chase’s Ink Business Unlimited® or Ink Business Cash® cards can help you earn valuable points without affecting your 5/24 count. And business cards from other banks don’t count towards 5/24 either.

View of a sleek black business credit card with a contactless payment icon on a white background.

Sample 5/24 Strategy for Personal Cards

Ready to get strategic? Here’s a sample personal card strategy—in order of how you’d want to open them—that will help you earn rewards while staying under 5/24 rule:

  1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
    I always recommend starting with the Sapphire Preferred for access to Chase Ultimate Rewards points, which can be transferred to top airlines and hotel partners. It’s the most beginner-friendly card and deserves a place in your wallet.
  2. Co-Branded Hotel Card
    Choose a card for your favorite hotel brand—we love the World of Hyatt personal card. This card can come with free nights and points towards your stays. This is a co-branded card with Chase, so you can manage it within the same portal as your other cards.
  3. Co-Branded Airline Card
    Consider what airline is the best option from you home airline, and then find the right card associated with that airline. For us, cards like the Southwest Rapid Rewards® or Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® have gotten our family a lot of nearly-free flights. If you want to stick with Chase cards, the Southwest family of cards will be your best bet.
  4. Chase Freedom Unlimited®
    This card earns 1.5X cashback on everything, making it an ideal tool for maximizing rewards in your Chase portfolio. It’s one of my go-to cards for earning Chase points on everyday purchases.
  5. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
    This card offers amazing travel benefits, including a high sign-up bonus and 2X miles on every purchase. Apply early in your rewards travel journey, since Capital One can be sensitive to recent credit card inquiries.

Now, you’re at 5/24 and have a solid mix of cards to start earning in various ways. Keep in mind that once you hit 5/24, you won’t be able to open more Chase cards until one falls off your count after 24 months from the application date.

Macro view of multiple credit cards stacked, highlighting their embossed numbers and metallic chip.

Card Strategy If You’re Already over 5/24 rule

If you find yourself over the 5/24 limit, don’t panic—there are still plenty of ways to earn rewards and build a valuable credit card portfolio without sacrificing your credit score or the rewards you’re after. Here’s how you can adjust your strategy and work with the 5/24 restriction.

1. Focus on Business Credit Cards

If you’re over 5/24, business credit cards are your bestie. And the good news is that business credit cards generally don’t count toward your 5/24 status. Chase, for example, has several great business credit cards like the Ink Business Unlimited® or Ink Business Preferred® that don’t count toward your 5/24 total. By opening business cards, you can bypass the 5/24 restriction and continue earning valuable points and rewards.

Pro Tip: If you don’t currently own a business, you can still qualify for these cards as a sole proprietor or freelancer. In many cases, a small side hustle or gig work qualifies you to apply for a business credit card. Learn more about applying for business cards here.

2. Apply for Cards from Other Banks

Chase’s 5/24 rule only applies to being approved for new cards from Chase. So, if you’re maxed out with Chase applications, just look elsewhere. Other banks, such as American Express, Capital One, and Citi, do not follow the 5/24 rule and are great alternatives for earning valuable points. Here’s how you can adjust your strategy:

Opening cards with these other banks can help you continue earning rewards even if you’re over 5/24.

Hand holding a selection of credit cards.

3. Wait for Cards to Drop Off

Chase’s 5/24 rule is based on the last 24 months, so after two years, the cards you opened will no longer count toward your 5/24 limit. The key is to plan ahead and track which cards are dropping off. Using an app like CardPointers can help you stay on top of when your cards are no longer included in the count, and you’ll be free to apply for Chase cards again.

4. Maximize Existing Cards

While you wait for your 5/24 count to reset, it’s a great time to maximize the rewards on the cards you already have. Consider shifting spending to cards that offer category multipliers and utilize shopping portals and bonus offers. This strategy will help you earn points more efficiently while you’re waiting.

Bonus Tip: Don’t forget about referral bonuses that can boost your points balance, especially if you’re in two player mode.

5. Get Strategic About Future Applications

Once your 5/24 count resets, you’ll be able to apply for more Chase cards. Be strategic about when you open your new cards and make sure you’re not overwhelming your credit score with multiple new inquiries. Space out your applications by at least 90 days to keep your credit healthy and maximize your approval chances.

"Close-up of a person using a keyboard and holding a Visa card with a wallet nearby, illustrating online payment.

Final Thoughts: How to Make 5/24 Rule Work For You

Staying on top of your 5/24 status can help you unlock amazing rewards without having to worry about being denied by Chase. By planning ahead, you can maximize your points, secure valuable sign-up bonuses, and travel smarter. Managing your 5/24 count gives you the best shot at getting the most out of your credit cards.

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The next time you’re thinking about opening a new credit card, remember to check your 5/24 count first—and put a strategy in place.

If you have any questions or need further advice feel free to email me or send me a message on Instagram. I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you.

Please note that this article contains affiliate links, and I may earn a referral commission if you choose to apply through my links. As a small business, these earnings help me to continue to bring you content like this at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

The post What Is the 5/24 Rule? Learn How to Work with It & Maximize Your Rewards appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> Capital One Venture Rewards Card: Easy Rewards for Family Travel https://marionthemap.com/capital-one-venture-rewards-card/ Mon, 24 Mar 2025 18:49:53 +0000 https://marionthemap.com/?p=3152 Mari on the Map

Capital One Venture Rewards Card: Easy Rewards for Family Travel

The Capital One Venture Rewards Card is a top-tier travel rewards card that makes earning and redeeming miles incredibly simple for families. Whether you're planning a road trip with the kids, flying to visit relatives, or booking a spacious Airbnb for a family vacation, this card offers generous rewards, flexible redemption options, and valuable perks to help you maximize rewards for every trip.

The post Capital One Venture Rewards Card: Easy Rewards for Family Travel appeared first on Mari on the Map.

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Capital One Venture Rewards Card: Easy Rewards for Family Travel

This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.

The Capital One Venture Rewards Card is a top-tier travel rewards card that makes earning and redeeming miles incredibly simple for families. Whether you’re planning a road trip with the kids, flying to visit relatives, or booking a spacious Airbnb for a family vacation, this card offers generous rewards, flexible redemption options, and valuable perks to help you maximize rewards for every trip.

Capital One Venture Rewards Card Overview

The Capital One Venture Rewards Card is a flat-rate travel rewards credit card offering 2X miles per dollar on all purchases. With its simple redemption process and solid travel perks, it’s an excellent choice for families who want an easy way to earn and use travel rewards without tracking bonus categories.

Capital One Venture Card

Benefits Tailored to Families

  • Flat 2X Miles on Everything – Earn rewards on every purchase, from groceries to theme park tickets, without tracking categories.
  • Flexible Redemption Options – Redeem miles for travel purchases, book through Capital One Travel, or transfer to airline and hotel partners.
  • Erase Airbnb, VRBO, and Rental Car Expenses – Unlike some travel cards that only reward traditional hotel stays, Venture miles can be used to cover alternative accommodations perfect for big families.
  • Up to a $100 Credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry – This credit covers the cost of Global Entry for one parent, and kids under 18 can now be added for free when applying with an approved parent. This means you only need to pay for your own Global Entry, and one of your children can get it at no additional cost—making customs lines much easier for families traveling internationally.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees – Use this card to pay for expenses when you travel internationally without extra charges (cards with foreign transaction fees usually charge 3%).
  • Travel Protections & Rental Car Coverage – Added security for your family’s trips, whether you’re renting a van for a national park road trip or taking a quick weekend getaway.
Hand holding a selection of credit cards. Capital One Venture Card

What Are Venture Miles?

Venture miles are Capital One’s flexible travel rewards currency. They can be redeemed in three main ways:

  1. Purchase Eraser – Pay for travel and use miles to erase the cost, including Airbnb, VRBO, campgrounds, and other family-friendly stays.
  2. Book Through Capital One Travel – Use miles to book flights, hotels, and rental cars directly.
  3. Transfer to Travel Partners – Move miles to airline and hotel loyalty programs for potential high-value redemptions.

Making the Most of Venture Miles for Family Travel

Venture miles are fixed-value travel rewards, meaning they can be used to offset travel expenses or transferred to partners for potentially greater value.

Examples in Action

  • 50,000 miles = $500 toward travel purchases when using the Purchase Eraser, perfect for offsetting the cost of a family Airbnb stay.
  • 50,000 miles transferred to a partner airline could cover a one-way business class flight to Europe, which can be worth more than $2,000.

Point-to-Dollar Ratio

When redeemed through the Purchase Eraser, Venture miles are worth 1 cent per mile (e.g., 10,000 miles = $100). However, transfers to airline partners can sometimes yield higher redemption values.

Capital One Venture Rewards Card Built-In Travel Protection

The Capital One Venture Rewards Card includes benefits such as:

  • Rental Car Collision Damage Waiver – Essential when renting minivans or SUVs for family road trips.
  • Travel Accident Insurance – Provides extra peace of mind.
  • 24/7 Travel Assistance Services – Get help if your plans hit a snag while traveling with the whole crew.
Cars driving on a road in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii next to the ocean with a mountain in the background
Roadtripping around Maui, Hawaii

Does the Capital One Venture Rewards Card Have Foreign Transaction Fees?

No! You can use the Venture Rewards card anywhere in the world without worrying about foreign transaction fees—perfect for family trips abroad.

Eligibility

Capital One typically looks for good to excellent credit (700+ score) for approval. If you have multiple recent credit inquiries, approval may be more challenging. It’s always best to wit at least 90 days from your last credit card application.

Why the Capital One Venture Rewards Card Shines for Family Travel?

  • Flat-rate earning makes budgeting easy – No need to stress over maximizing categories while juggling busy family life.
  • No restrictions on travel redemptions – Use miles for flights, hotels, Airbnb stays, rental cars, and more.
  • Strong travel protections without a premium card price – Great benefits without the hefty annual fee of luxury cards—this card’s annual fee is currently $95.

Exploring the Capital One Travel Portal: A Convenient Way to Book Travel for Families

When it comes to booking travel, convenience and value are key—especially for families. The Capital One Travel Portal offers both, making it a fantastic option for those looking to simplify their travel planning process while maximizing their rewards. Whether you’re booking a family vacation, a quick weekend getaway, or a business trip, the Capital One Travel Portal makes the experience easy and beneficial for families.

Capital One travel portal. Capital One Venture Rewards credit card.

How the Capital One Travel Portal Works

The Capital One Travel Portal is an online booking tool that allows you to redeem your Capital One miles for flights, hotels, car rentals, and more. Essentially, it’s your one-stop shop for booking all your travel needs, with the added perk of using your accumulated miles for payment.

To get started, simply log into your Capital One account. From there, you can search for flights, hotels, and car rentals just like you would on other travel booking sites. The big difference is that you can use your Capital One miles to cover the cost, reducing the out-of-pocket expenses for your family vacation.

Benefits of Using the Capital One Travel Portal

  1. Flexibility in Redemption
    The Capital One Travel Portal gives you flexibility in how you redeem your miles. You can use your miles to book travel directly, or even cover part of the cost and pay the rest in cash. The portal also provides access to flights, hotels, and car rentals from a wide range of partners, which means you have plenty of options to fit your family’s needs.
  2. Value for Your Miles
    Capital One miles are typically worth 1 cent per mile when redeemed for travel. However, if you book through the Travel Portal, you often get great value out of your miles, especially when taking advantage of promotions or special offers.
  3. Convenience and Time-Saving
    Gone are the days of bouncing between multiple websites to find the best deal. With Capital One’s Travel Portal, everything is in one place. This means less time spent hunting for the best prices and more time focusing on your vacation plans. Plus, if you book a flight, hotel, and car rental all in one go, you can streamline the process, which means less planning.
  4. No Blackout Dates
    One of the standout benefits of using the Capital One Travel Portal is the lack of blackout dates. Unlike some other travel rewards programs, you don’t have to worry about restrictions on when you can use your miles, which gives you the flexibility to plan your family vacations without stress.

Benefits for Families

Traveling with kids means there’s a lot to coordinate, but the Capital One Travel Portal makes family trips easier in several ways:

  1. Wide Range of Family-Friendly Options
    Whether you’re looking for a hotel with family suites, a rental car that fits everyone comfortably, or flights that offer good seating arrangements for children, the Travel Portal gives you access to a variety of family-friendly travel options. Many hotels and resorts listed in the portal offer family-oriented amenities such as free breakfast, kids’ activities, and spacious rooms.
  2. Using Miles to Save on Family Travel Costs
    Family vacations can be pricey, and using your Capital One miles to cover travel expenses can make a huge difference in your budget. Families can save on flights, accommodations, and even rental cars, giving them more room to splurge on fun activities or experiences during the trip.
  3. Customizable Travel Packages
    Capital One Travel allows you to book custom travel packages, which can be incredibly useful for families. Whether it’s a Disney vacation, a trip to a beach resort, or an adventure in a new city, you can tailor your booking to your family’s needs, combining flights, hotels, and car rentals in one simple transaction.
  4. Family Pooling
    If you have multiple family members accumulating miles, Capital One allows you to pool miles, which makes it easier to reach the number of miles you need for a family trip. This means no one gets left behind when it comes to redeeming miles, and your family can enjoy more savings on your next getaway. Learn more about earning points with your spouse, partner, or other family members in this post.
Family of four walking in front of the Colosseum in Rome, Italy

Extra Perks You’ll Love

  1. 24/7 Travel Assistance
    One of the most valuable benefits of booking through the Capital One Travel Portal is 24/7 travel assistance. This service provides families with access to help when you need it, whether you’re dealing with flight delays, changes in plans, or need help finding a last-minute hotel.
  2. Access to Special Offers
    Capital One frequently partners with various airlines, hotels, and car rental services to offer exclusive deals and discounts to cardholders. These offers can often be combined with your miles to provide even greater savings, making it easier for families to travel more often without breaking the bank.

Capital One Transfer Partners

Capital One has established partnerships with over 15 airline and hotel loyalty programs, enabling you to transfer your Capital One Miles for a wide range of travel rewards. Here’s a comprehensive list of these transfer partners:

Airline Partners

  • Aeromexico Club Premier
    • Aeromexico offers a robust network in Latin America, ideal for family vacations to warm destinations like Mexico, with options for family-focused services and amenities.
  • Air Canada Aeroplan
    • Air Canada offers a family pooling option, where members can combine miles, making it easier to redeem for family trips, especially for those heading to Canada or nearby destinations.
  • Air France/KLM Flying Blue
    • Flying Blue offers a large European network with family-friendly policies, such as flexible booking options for children and easy access to family destinations across Europe.
  • Avianca LifeMiles
    • Avianca’s miles can be used on flights to South America, and their redemption options are flexible, making it a great choice for family trips to destinations like Colombia or Peru.
  • British Airways Executive Club
    • British Airways allows families to pool miles, which can make it easier to book family flights to Europe. They also have family-friendly amenities like priority boarding for families with children.
  • Cathay Pacific Asia Miles
    • With a focus on long-haul travel to Asia, Cathay Pacific offers a great option for families traveling to destinations like Hong Kong, Japan, or Southeast Asia, with good service for young travelers.
  • Emirates Skywards
    • Emirates is known for its excellent family services, including kids’ entertainment options and family discounts, making it a great choice for long-haul family trips.
  • Etihad Guest
    • Etihad offers a variety of family-friendly services, including priority boarding, family seating, and flexible policies, ideal for families flying to the Middle East or beyond.
  • EVA Air Infinity MileageLands
    • EVA Air offers fantastic service for families, including dedicated family check-in lines and excellent in-flight entertainment, especially on flights to Asia.
  • Finnair Plus
    • With routes to Northern Europe, Finnair offers family-friendly amenities, including family seating and a generous baggage policy for families traveling with children.
  • Qantas Frequent Flyer
    • Qantas offers a range of family-friendly services, including free bassinets and priority boarding for families, making it a top choice for families traveling to Australia.
  • Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
    • Known for excellent customer service, Singapore Airlines offers comfortable family-friendly flights with amenities like bassinets, priority boarding, and children’s meals.
  • TAP Air Portugal Miles&Go
    • TAP has a strong European network with affordable fares to destinations like Lisbon. They offer family-friendly options such as flexible bookings and the ability to transfer miles within the family.
  • Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles
    • Turkish Airlines provides excellent service for families, with priority boarding, generous baggage allowances, and family seating available on flights to destinations like Istanbul.
  • Virgin Red
    • Virgin’s family-friendly policies include flexible ticketing and family discounts, making it a good choice for families traveling to the UK or the Caribbean.
An airplane flying over the Rocky Mountains. Capital One airline transfer partners

Hotel Partners

  • Accor Live Limitless (ALL)
    • Accor’s extensive hotel network includes family-friendly brands like Novotel, which provides spacious family rooms and fun kids’ activities, making it a great choice for family vacations.
  • Choice Privileges
    • Choice Hotels offers affordable and family-friendly properties across the U.S. and internationally, with spacious rooms and locations close to family attractions.
  • Wyndham Rewards
    • Wyndham provides many budget-friendly hotels that offer large rooms and family-oriented amenities, ideal for families seeking comfort during road trips or vacations.
Choice Hotels where kids stay free

Most of these partners offer a 1:1 transfer ratio, meaning each Capital One Mile converts to one mile or point in the partner’s program. However, some partners have different transfer ratios. For example, ALL Accor Live Limitless transfers at a 2:1 ratio, and EVA Air Infinity MileageLands transfers at a 2:1.5 ratio.

To initiate a transfer, log into your Capital One account online or via the mobile app, navigate to your rewards, and select the transfer option. Remember, once miles are transferred, they cannot be converted back to Capital One Miles.

Capital One transfer partners 2025. Capital One Venture Rewards card.

For more detailed information on each transfer partner, including transfer ratios and processing times, you can refer to Capital One’s transfer partner guide.

Transferring miles to these partners can sometimes yield higher redemption values, especially when booking spacious accommodations or award flights for multiple family members.

Earning More Points and Combining

You can boost your Venture miles by using additional Capital One travel cards and business cards in the same rewards ecosystem. Business cards can be a great option and are actually possible to apply for and be approved, even if you’re not a traditional business owners. Learn more about that here.

Eligible Capital One Cards for Combining Points

If you have multiple Capital One rewards cards, you can combine miles for even bigger redemptions.

How to Combine Points

Step 1: Log in to your Capital One account. Scroll down to the Explore rewards and benefits section, and click “view rewards.”

Capital One Venture Rewards Card: Easy Rewards for Family Travel Mari on the Map

Step 2: In the Rewards portal, scroll down and click on “combine rewards”.

Capital One combine rewards. Capital One Venture Rewards credit card.

Step 3: Select the account you want to move points from and select the account you want to move points to. Click “confirm”.

Capital One combine rewards. Capital One Venture Rewards credit card.

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Final Thoughts

The Capital One Venture Rewards Card is one of the most flexible and family-friendly travel rewards cards. Whether you’re booking flights, hotels, rental cars, or a spacious Airbnb, Venture miles make it easy to save on travel. If you value simplicity, ease of earning, and flexible redemptions, this card is a great addition to your wallet.

Thinking about getting the Capital One Venture Rewards Card? Click here to learn more and see if it’s the right fit for your family’s travel style!

Feel free to email me or send a message on Instagram if you need further advice—I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you travel.

Please note that this article contains affiliate links, and I may earn a referral commission if you choose to apply through my links. As a small business, these earnings help me to continue to bring you content like this at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

The post Capital One Venture Rewards Card: Easy Rewards for Family Travel appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> 10 Hotels Where Kids Stay Free & How to Maximize Your Rewards at Each https://marionthemap.com/kids-stay-free/ Tue, 18 Mar 2025 01:43:47 +0000 https://marionthemap.com/?p=3228 Mari on the Map

10 Hotels Where Kids Stay Free & How to Maximize Your Rewards at Each

The memories you make on family vacations are priceless — but the cost certainly isn’t. The good news? Many hotels offer “kids stay free” promotions that make traveling with little ones a whole lot easier on your wallet. Better yet, pair those deals with the right travel rewards credit card, and you could rack up...

The post 10 Hotels Where Kids Stay Free & How to Maximize Your Rewards at Each appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> Mari on the Map

10 Hotels Where Kids Stay Free & How to Maximize Your Rewards at Each

The memories you make on family vacations are priceless — but the cost certainly isn’t. The good news? Many hotels offer “kids stay free” promotions that make traveling with little ones a whole lot easier on your wallet. Better yet, pair those deals with the right travel rewards credit card, and you could rack up points to score an even sweeter deal — maybe even a free stay!

By choosing the right hotels with family-friendly promotions, you can unlock significant savings for your family vacation. In this post, I’ll walk you through some of the best kids-stay-free options, along with which rewards travel credit card rewards that can make your trip even more affordable.

Holiday Inn

Holiday Inn properties are designed specifically for families, offering comfortable accommodations, kid-friendly dining options, and family-oriented amenities like pools and game rooms. Many locations also offer complimentary breakfast buffets that even our picky eaters love.

Kids Stay Free Perk: Up to two children stay free when sharing a room with up to two adults at participating locations.

Holiday Inn where kids stay free
Holiday Inn Resort Pensacola Beach

Best Credit Card for Holiday Inn

Holiday Inn hotels are part of the IHG family, making the IHG One Rewards Premier card a top choice for maximizing points at Holiday Inn properties. Here’s how you can maximize your earnings:

  • 10x Points: Earned on eligible IHG purchases with the IHG One Rewards Premier card
  • Up to 10x Points: Additional points are earned through IHG One Rewards membership benefits
  • Up to 6x Points: Platinum Elite status benefits, automatically included with this card

With the IHG One Rewards Premier card, you’ll also receive Platinum Elite status, unlocking perks like room upgrades and late checkout. Plus, the card’s annual Free Night Award can be redeemed at Holiday Inn and other IHG properties, adding even more value your family. Points can be earned from your stays or be used to pay for stays.

Dreams Resorts & Spas

Spacious suites, beach-front properties, multiple pools, and family-focused entertainment make Dreams Resorts & Spas ideal for both relaxing vacations and fun-filled family adventures. On-site activities like beach games, movie nights, and kid-friendly shows mean there’s never a dull moment.

Kids Stay Free Perk: One free child per paying adult, up to two free kids per room for stays between August 18, 2025, and October 31, 2025.

Dreams Resorts & Spas where kids stay free
Image courtesy of Dreams Resorts & Spas

Best Credit Card for Dreams Resorts & Spas

If you’re heading to a Dreams Resort & Spa, the World of Hyatt card is an excellent choice to earn points during your stay or use points you’ve previously earned to cover the stay in full.

  • 4x Points: Earned through the World of Hyatt card on Hyatt purchases, including stays at Dreams Resorts & Spas
  • 5x Points: As a World of Hyatt member, you can stack these earnings with your membership, for a total of 9 points per $1 on eligible Hyatt-related expenses
  • Annual Free Night: Receive a Free Night Award each year after your card renewal, which can be redeemed at Hyatt properties, including Dreams Resorts & Spas

The World of Hyatt Credit Card also provides 5 tier-qualifying night credits each year and automatic Discoverist status, helping you reach elite status faster. This status unlocks perks like room upgrades and late check-out.

Hilton All-Inclusive Resorts

Hilton’s all-inclusive properties offer expansive suites, water parks, and on-site kid-centric activities like dance parties, scavenger hunts, and more. Plus, with dining included, parents can relax without stressing over the bill.

Kids Stay Free Perk: Kids and teens (17 and under) stay and eat free at select all-inclusive properties in the Caribbean and Mexico during specific promotional periods.

Hilton All-Inclusive Resorts where kids stay free
Image courtesy of Hilton All-Inclusive Resorts

Best Credit Card for Hilton All-Inclusive Resorts

The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire card is an excellent choice for maximizing your rewards if you’re planning a stay at a Hilton All-Inclusive Resort.

  • 14x Points: On eligible purchases at Hilton properties, including all-inclusive resorts
  • 7x Points: On flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel
  • 5x Points: On prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel

Additionally, the card provides Hilton Honors Diamond status, which comes with benefits such as room upgrades and late check-out. It also offers a $400 annual Hilton Resort credit, which can be used for eligible purchases at Hilton resorts, including all-inclusive properties.

Iberostar Hotels & Resorts

Iberostar properties are known for their family-friendly amenities, including kids’ clubs, splash parks, and organized activities for many age groups. Plus, Iberostar often features beachfront locations with plenty of entertainment for parents, too, making it a win for the whole family.

Kids Stay Free Perk: Kids stay free at select ocean resorts during certain times of the year.

Iberostar Hotels & Resorts where kids stay free
Image courtesy of Iberostar Resorts

Best Credit Card for Iberostar Resorts

If you’re planning a stay at an Iberostar Beachfront Resort, the IHG One Rewards Premier card is one of the best options for earning or redeeming points. Just as with Holiday Inn properties, you can earn points from your bookings, enjoy special rates and enjoy exclusive benefits, or redeem your points to book your room.

Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels are perfect for road trips and budget-conscious families. Brands range from the luxury Ascend Hotel Collection and Cambria Hotels to Comfort Inn and Quality Inn that provide more affordable stays, often with free breakfast included — making it easy to stretch your vacation budget even further.

Kids Stay Free Perk: Children 18 and younger stay free when sharing a room with their parents or grandparents.

Choice Hotels where kids stay free
Image courtesy of Choice Hotels

Best Credit Card for Choice Hotels

If you’re planning a stay at a Choice Hotels property, the Barclays Choice Privileges® Visa Signature® card will help you maximize your points. This card is designed specifically for Choice Privileges members, making it easier to earn and redeem points for stays at Choice Hotels properties.

  • 5x Points: On eligible Choice Hotels purchases
  • 2x Points: On gas stations, which helps if you’re roadtripping, and grocery stores, which helps if you plan to cook your own meals Choice Hotel’s Suburban Studios, which often feature in-room kitchens or kitchenettes

Cardholders also get automatic Gold Elite status, giving you early check-in, late checkout, and bonus points on stays. Plus, each year you renew your card, you’ll receive 8,000 bonus points—enough for a free night at select Choice Hotels.

Extended Stay America

Extended Stay America properties provide roomy suites with full kitchens, making them a budget-friendly option for families on longer vacations. Located across the US, including in Alaska, the home-like amenities help make longer or shorter stays comfortable and convenient for families. Despite their name, there is no minimum stay requirement, but they do offer special rates for stays of seven nights or more.

Kids Stay Free Perk: Children under 17 stay free when accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Extended Stay America where kids stay free
Image Courtesy of Extended Stay America

Maximizing Rewards at Extended Stay America

You can maximize your rewards using a flexible-points-earning credit card, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® card. This card is well-loved among rewards travelers, especially for beginners, for its flexibility. Cardholders earn 3x points on on dining, including takeout, and 3x points on online grocery purchases, which is perfect for cooking your own meals in Extended Stay America’s full-sized kitchens.

Alexandra Resort

Located in the beautiful island of Turks and Caicos, Alexandra Resort is a family-friendly all-inclusive resort featuring large beachfront suites, kid-friendly menus, and supervised activities to keep little ones entertained.

Kids Stay Free Perk: Children ages 12 and under stay, eat, and play for free.

Alexandra Resort where kids stay free
Image courtesy of Alexandra Resorts

Maximizing Rewards at Alexandra Resort

Alexandra Resort doesn’t have its own loyalty program, so flexible points cards, like the Capital One Venture Rewards card, are the best option for maximizing rewards on your stay. The Capital One Venture Rewards card’s 2x miles rate applies to every purchase, allowing you to earn extra miles from booking your stay at Alexandra Resort using that card.

Additionally, this card offers you the ability to “erase” travel purchases with miles. All you have to do after you’ve made a travel purchase on the card is log into your Capital One account and choose the purchase you want to cover with your miles. This makes it a great option for covering your resort getaway, giving you flexibility when planning your trip.

Villa del Palmar Cancun

Villa del Palmar Cancun offers ample space to spread out in their suites, beachfront views, and fun family amenities like splash pads, pool games, and family dining options—a great choice for families seeking a tropical getaway.

Kids Stay Free Perk: Up to two kids under 12 stay and eat free in One Bedroom suites with a minimum three-night stay.

Villa del Palmar Cancun where kids stay free
Image courtesy of Villa del Palmar Cancun

Maximizing Rewards at Villa del Palmar Cancun

While Villa del Palmar Cancun does offer an all-inclusive dining option, guests have the option to dine a la carte and enjoy the resort’s restaurants and bars, paying for your meals and drinks as you go. For this reason, the Bilt Mastercard® is a great option. It earns 3x points on dining for those who want to go al la carte, and 2x points on travel for those who choose the all-inclusive meal package, which will be added to your room bill and show up on your credit card statement as travel instead of dining. Bilt points are flexible and transfer 1:1 to major airline and hotel partners, making it a versatile choice.

Club Med

Club Med resorts are known for their all-inclusive experiences designed for families with kids of all ages. Their family-friendly amenities include child care services, circus school activities, and teen clubs.

Kids Stay Free Perk: Kids under 4 stay free at all Club Med all-inclusive resorts.

Club Med where kids stay free
Image courtesy of Club Med

Maximizing Rewards at Club Med

Club Med also doesn’t have its own loyalty program, so flexible points cards, like the Citi Strata Premier® card, are the best option for maximizing rewards on your stay. The Citi Strata Premier® card’s 3x points rate applies not only to traditional hotels but also to resorts, meaning you would earn extra points for booking all-inclusive stays like Club Med. Additionally, Citi ThankYou® points are highly flexible, allowing you to transfer them to airline partners to get you to your Club Med stay.

Palace Resorts

Palace Resorts is known for their luxurious rooms, top-notch dining options, and organized activities tailored for kids. Think kid-friendly buffets, game rooms, and even mini golf courses — all included in your stay.

Kids Stay Free Perk: Kids and teens stay free when sharing a room with at least one adult.

Palace Resorts where kids stay free
Image courtesy of Palace Resorts

Maximizing Rewards at Palace Resorts

Since Palace Resorts doesn’t have its own loyalty program, a flexible rewards card like the Chase Freedom Unlimited® card can offer a smart choice for earning on your stay. With 1.5% cash back on everyday purchases, plus 3% cash back on dining and 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, you can rack up rewards quickly.

Final Thoughts

Family travel doesn’t have to break the bank. By combining “kids stay free” promotions with credit card rewards, you can unlock amazing vacations without overspending. Hotels and resorts offer incredible value when you know where to look, and with the right credit card strategy, you could enjoy those magical family moments for next to nothing.

Take the time to research, book early, and maximize your points for unforgettable family adventures.

Feel free to email me or send a message on Instagram if you need further advice—I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you travel.

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The post 10 Hotels Where Kids Stay Free & How to Maximize Your Rewards at Each appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> How Business Credit Cards Boost Travel Rewards, Even if You’re Not a Traditional Business Owner https://marionthemap.com/how-business-credit-cards-boost-travel-rewards/ Mon, 03 Feb 2025 22:17:09 +0000 https://marionthemap.com/?p=2586 Mari on the Map

How Business Credit Cards Boost Travel Rewards, Even if You’re Not a Traditional Business Owner

When it comes to earning travel rewards, business credit cards might seem out of reach. If you’re thinking, “I don’t own a business, so I can’t apply for a business card,” you’re not alone. I used to feel the same way! But here’s the good news: you don’t need a registered business to qualify. In fact, opening business cards could be one of the easiest ways to supercharge your rewards. Let’s break it down.

The post How Business Credit Cards Boost Travel Rewards, Even if You’re Not a Traditional Business Owner appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> Mari on the Map

How Business Credit Cards Boost Travel Rewards, Even if You’re Not a Traditional Business Owner

This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.

When it comes to earning travel rewards, business credit cards might seem out of reach. If you’re thinking, “I don’t own a business, so I can’t apply for a business card,” you’re not alone. I used to feel the same way! But here’s the good news: you don’t need a registered business to qualify. In fact, opening business cards could be one of the easiest ways to supercharge your rewards. Let’s break it down.

Why Consider Business Credit Cards

Business credit cards come with unique benefits that make them a no-brainer for rewards travelers:

  • High Welcome Offers: Business cards often feature generous sign-up bonuses that help you rack up points faster.
  • No Impact on the 5/24 Rule: Most business credit cards (except some from Discover and Capital One) don’t count toward Chase’s 5/24 rule. This means you can maximize your personal cards while still opening business cards.

Who qualifies for a business credit card?

Here’s the secret: if you earn money outside a regular W-2 job, you’re likely eligible for a business card. Whether it’s a side hustle, freelance work, or selling items online, you could qualify as a sole proprietor.

Examples of Qualifying Activities:

  • Selling on platforms like eBay, Etsy, or Facebook Marketplace – typically the easiest for anyone who has kids. You can sell some of their gently used clothes or toys online, and now you have a business. A friend of mine’s husband sells baseball cards online to qualify.
  • Babysitting or daycare
  • Tutoring or teaching
  • Renting out property (like Airbnb-ing your own home or a second home)
  • Driving for rideshare apps like Lyft and Uber or food delivery apps like Door Dash
  • Freelancing (writing, graphic design, etc.)

How to Apply for a Business Credit Card

Applying is simpler than you might think. Here’s how to navigate the key application sections if you’re applying as a sole proprietor (meaning you do not have an EIN aka employer identification number):

  • Legal Name of Business: Use your full name.
  • Business Name on Card: Same as above.
  • Business Address: Your personal address.
  • Business Structure: Select “Sole Proprietor.”
  • Tax ID: Use your Social Security number (SSN).
  • Annual Business Revenue: Estimate what you’ll earn this year, even if it’s a side hustle.
  • Years in Business: Include all the time you’ve been doing this activity, even if you weren’t earning much at first.
  • Employees: Enter “0” or “1,” depending on the application requirements.

Pro Tip:

To increase your approval odds, space out applications by at least 90 days and ensure you’re not opening too many cards too quickly. If you do happen to have an EIN, use that to apply instead of your SSN.

Two business credit cards sit on a wallet next to a laptop with graphs on the screen. Below them are more paper graphs and an iPhone showing the calculator app.

Can you use business cards for personal spending?

While business cards are intended for business expenses, banks can’t easily distinguish between personal and business spending. That said, keeping a clear record of expenses is crucial, especially for tax purposes. For tax time, you can easily categorize which of your purchases are business versus personal with apps like Rocket Money. But it’s important to note that the items you actually buy with your business card will not impact your ability to earn the sign up bonus, as long as you spend the required amount within the required time frame when you applied.

Can you open multiple business cards?

Yes! You can:

  1. Open multiple cards for a single business.
  2. Apply for new cards if you run different businesses, even as a sole proprietor.

For example, if you blog and sell items online, you could apply for the same card under each business, potentially earning twice the points!

Recommended Business Cards for Rewards Travel

Chase’s business credit cards have always been our top picks because of their flexibility, valuable rewards structures, and compatibility with the Ultimate Rewards® program, making them ideal for earning travel points. Here’s a deeper look to help you choose the right one for you:

Ink Business Unlimited®

  • Benefits: Earns 1.5% cashback on all purchases with no categories to track, making it simpler to earn more points. It’s great to have a card like this in your wallet for spending categories where there isn’t an option to multiple your points (example: some cards earn 3x points in dining, but maybe you don’t have a card that earns extra points on groceries, so instead of using any old card that would get you the standard 1% back on “everything else”, you’d use this card to get 1.5%).
  • Who Should Use It: Small businesses with varied spending or those new to rewards cards.
  • Bonus: Cashback can be converted to Ultimate Rewards® points when paired with a premium card (Chase Sapphire Preferred®, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, or Ink Business Preferred®). No annual fee.

Ink Business Cash®

  • Benefits: Offers 5% cashback on office supplies, phone, and internet services, and 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants—all with no annual fee. One of the top ways to use that 5% cashback at office supply stores is to buy gift cards for places where you may be spending a lot but can’t earn many points back, like Amazon or Airbnb, which don’t typically fall neatly into a bonus category. You can also use this to buy gift cards as presents for others and get 5% back.
  • Who Should Use It: Entrepreneurs or side hustlers with significant spending in these categories, or those with an office supply store in convenient distance to your home, so you can snag gift cards at 5% back to use on your every day purchases.
  • Bonus: Points can also be transferred to travel partners when paired with a premium Chase card (Chase Sapphire Preferred®, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, or Ink Business Preferred®). No annual fee.

Ink Business Preferred®

  • Why It’s Great: Gives you the ability to transfer points to premium travel partners, plus 3X points on travel and other business categories like shipping and advertising. This is a great card to use on your random travel expenses if you don’t already have a Chase Sapphire Preferred®, which already earns 3X points on travel.
  • Who Should Use It: Established businesses or those prioritizing travel redemptions.
  • Bonus: Includes trip protection, cell phone insurance, and other premium benefits, but note that this card does have a $95 annual fee.

These cards offer powerful earning potential, flexibility, and family-friendly rewards, making them a go-to choice for maximizing points.

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Why Chase over Amex or Capital One?

  • Transfer Partners: Chase points transfer to popular programs like Hyatt and Southwest, often with better redemption value than Amex or Capital One.
  • Ease of Use: Chase’s rewards ecosystem is straightforward, and its cards offer a variety of no fee options for beginners.
  • Versatility: With no cap on cashback categories and flexible redemption, Chase business cards fit a range of budgets and spending habits.
  • Lower Required Spending: Chase business cards typically have a lower requirement for spending to earn their sign-up bonuses, making them easier to achieve for families with their regular household spending.

How to Maximize Points

If you hold a Chase business card, you’ll need to combine your points onto a premium card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® or Ink Business Preferred® to transfer them to travel partners. Here’s how:

  1. Log into your Chase account.
  2. Navigate to “Ultimate Rewards.”
  3. Select “Combine Points” and choose the cards you want to transfer between.
  4. Points transfer instantly!

You can also combine points with one other household member after linking accounts by calling Chase directly.

How to Combine Points

Step 1

Combine points from different cards by logging into your Chase account and click Ultimate Rewards® under Rewards on the right side. Once in the Ultimate Rewards® section, select “Rewards details”, then “Combine points” on the navigation.

How to combine Chase Ultimate Rewards® points
How to combine Chase Ultimate Rewards® points

Step 2

Then, select the card from which you want to move points, and the card to which you want to move points. The number of points and names of the cards have been erased in the below examples, but yours will show your card names over the images, with the last four digits displayed, in addition to how many points you have to move. Keep in mind that you want to move your points to a card that earns Ultimate Rewards® points from a cashback card in order to redeem them for travel.

How to combine Chase Ultimate Rewards® points

Step 3

Manually type in how many points you want to move from one card to another.

How to combine Chase Ultimate Rewards® points

Step 4

Confirm that everything looks good before hitting submit. Your points should combine instantly.

How to combine Chase Ultimate Rewards® points

Stretching Your Travel Budget

Business cards let you alternate between earning on personal and business cards, helping you maximize bonuses while staying under Chase’s 5/24 rule. With a little planning, you can collect hundreds of thousands of points each year to stretch your travel budget further. Just remember to always space out your applications by at least 90 days to keep your credit score healthy, and pay off your balance in full each month. We use autopay to ensure this happens.

Final Thoughts

Opening business cards isn’t as intimidating as it seems, and it’s also not “against the rules”. Whether you’re selling a few items online or offering freelance services, you’re likely eligible—and the rewards can be incredible. So, why not take the leap? Start earning points to fuel your next adventure and unlock the full potential of travel rewards.

If you have any questions or need further advice feel free to email me or send me a message on Instagram. I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you improve your family’s travel budget.

Please note that this article contains affiliate links, and I may earn a referral commission if you choose to apply through my links. As a small business, these earnings help me to continue to bring you content like this at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

The post How Business Credit Cards Boost Travel Rewards, Even if You’re Not a Traditional Business Owner appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> Credit Card Points: Understanding Category Multipliers to Unlock Travel Potential https://marionthemap.com/credit-card-points-category-multipliers/ Fri, 24 Jan 2025 03:50:20 +0000 https://marionthemap.com/?p=2589 Mari on the Map

Credit Card Points: Understanding Category Multipliers to Unlock Travel Potential

There are more ways to earn credit card points than just with sign up bonuses. Our family takes advantage of category multipliers, also known as bonus categories, which can help us earn 2X, 3X, 4X, or more points in certain categories if we use the right card. Whether you're ordering takeout, booking flights, or buying groceries, knowing which cards to use for specific purchases can help you maximize points and make your dream trip a reality.

The post Credit Card Points: Understanding Category Multipliers to Unlock Travel Potential appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> Mari on the Map

Credit Card Points: Understanding Category Multipliers to Unlock Travel Potential

This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.

There are more ways to earn credit card points than just with sign up bonuses. Our family takes advantage of category multipliers, also known as bonus categories, which can help us earn 2X, 3X, 4X, or more points in certain categories if we use the right card. Whether you’re ordering takeout, booking flights, or buying groceries, knowing which cards to use for specific purchases can help you maximize points and make your dream trip a reality.

What are category multipliers?

Category multipliers are credit card points bonus rates offered on certain spending categories. For example, a card may offer 3X points on dining or 5X points on travel bookings. Instead of earning the standard one point per dollar, you earn significantly more in specific categories.

Why They’re Valuable:

  • Faster Rewards: Multipliers let you rack up points quickly without spending extra money.
  • Maximizing Everyday Spending: By using the right card for each purchase, you earn more credit card points on the money you’re already spending.
  • Boost for Big Purchases: Categories like travel and dining are often major expenses, so getting more points back on your spend easily amplifies your earning potential. And don’t forget that ordering takeout often counts as dining, in addition to dining inside a restaurant, so that weekly Friday pizza night could be a big points earner for your family!

Most Valuable Credit Cards by Spending Category

Here are some of the top credit cards for earning points in popular spending categories. It’s a great idea to have one in your wallet that corresponds with the areas where your family might spend the most.

1. Dining

Chase Sapphire Preferred®

  • Category Multiplier: 3X points on dining.
  • Why It’s Valuable: Perfect for foodies or families dining out or ordering takeout, with points transferable to popular travel partners like Hyatt, Southwest, and United.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

American Express® Gold Card

  • Category Multiplier: 4X points at restaurants.
  • Why It’s Valuable: Great for those who prioritize dining experiences, with access to Amex Membership Rewards. Popular transfer partners for Amex Membership Rewards include Marriott, Hilton, and the Air France-KLM Flying Blue program—a favorite for American families who want to visit Europe via Paris.
An outdoor dining area in Pensacola featuring bright turquoise umbrellas, palm trees, modern patio furniture, and a relaxed beachside atmosphere under a clear blue sky.

2. Groceries

American Express® Gold Card

  • Category Multiplier: 4X points at US supermarkets (up to $25,000 annually).
  • Why It’s Valuable: Ideal for families, turning everyday grocery runs into significant travel rewards, because we all know that our main role as parents is snack man/lady.
American Express Gold Card

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

  • Category Multiplier: 6% cashback on U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 annually).
  • Why It’s Valuable: Great for cashback enthusiasts looking to offset grocery bills. Keep in mind that cashback from American Express cannot be converted into points, as it can with a Chase card that earns Ultimate Rewards points, so this one is just to get more money back in your hands.

Chase Freedom Flex℠

  • Category Multiplier: 5% cashback on rotating quarterly categories (often includes groceries), on up to $1,500 in combined purchases.
  • Why It’s Valuable: This card is versatile for maximizing rewards during quarters when groceries are featured.

In past years, the Chase Freedom Flex® offered the following 5% cashback categories by quarter:

  • Q1 (January – March): Grocery stores (excluding Walmart and Target), fitness clubs, and self-care services such as spas.
  • Q2 (April – June): Amazon, Whole Foods, hotel bookings directly or via Chase Travel, and restaurants.
  • Q3 (July – September): Gas stations, EV charging, live entertainment, and movie theaters.
  • Q4 (October – December): McDonald’s, PayPal, pet shops and vet services, and select charities including organizations like UNICEF, Feeding America, and Habitat for Humanity​.

Each quarter, you could earn 5% cashback or 5X points: cashback can be converted to Ultimate Rewards® points when paired with a premium card (Chase Saphhire Preferred®, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, or Ink Business Preferred®). But keep in mind that you have to register each quarter to activate the bonus categories and strategically plan spending within these categories to maximize rewards. If you’re someone who wants more of a set it and forget it approach, this card isn’t for you.

A customer paying for groceries at a store using a contactless card reader, with a basket of fresh vegetables on the counter.

3. Travel

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

  • Category Multiplier: 3X points on travel (after using the $300 annual travel credit).
  • Why It’s Valuable: Excellent for frequent travelers with premium perks like lounge access and travel insurance.
Credit Card Points: Understanding Category Multipliers to Unlock Travel Potential Mari on the Map

Capital One Venture Rewards Card

  • Category Multiplier: 2X miles on every purchase, including travel.
  • Why It’s Valuable: A straightforward option for earning miles with no category restrictions. This card is great for anyone who wants to earn extra points without having too think too much about rotating cards. Popular Capital One transfer partners include Wyndham and Choice hotels and British Airways.
Two young children watching in-flight entertainment screens on an airplane, wearing headphones and looking engaged.

4. Gas Stations

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

  • Category Multiplier: 3X points on gas.
  • Why It’s Valuable: Perfect for road trippers or commuters who spend heavily on fuel. Citi ThankYou points can be transferred to Virgin Atlantic, United Airlines, and Choice and Wyndham hotels, among others.
Credit Card Points: Understanding Category Multipliers to Unlock Travel Potential Mari on the Map

Citi Custom Cash® Card

  • Category Multiplier: Automatically earns 5% cashback (in the form of ThankYou points) on your highest spending category each billing cycle, up to $500 spent.
  • Why It’s Valuable: If gas is your top monthly expense, this card adapts to reward you without requiring a dedicated gas card. It’s perfect for those with fluctuating spending habits.

5. Office Supplies and Internet

Ink Business Cash® Credit Card

  • Category Multiplier: 5X points on office supplies, internet, and phone services (up to $25,000 annually).
  • Why It’s Valuable: Designed for small businesses, but sole proprietors can use it for side hustles or freelancing. Pro tip: also use this card to buy gift cards from office supply stores to get 5X on stores or brands where you may spend a lot but don’t have a category multiplier in your wallet—like Amazon. You can typically also find Airbnb, airline, and Disney gift cards, which can be used at Disney parks, at office supply stores and get 5X on those purchases.
Credit Card Points: Understanding Category Multipliers to Unlock Travel Potential Mari on the Map

Best Cards for “Everything Else” Spending

Not every purchase fits neatly into a bonus category, but that doesn’t mean you should miss out on earning rewards. Here are some top credit cards for everyday, uncategorized spending:

1. Citi® Double Cash Card

  • Earning Rate: 2% back on all purchases (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay).
  • Why It’s Valuable: Simple, flat-rate rewards with no need to track categories.

2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

  • Earning Rate: 2X miles on all purchases.
  • Why It’s Valuable: Flexible rewards that can be redeemed for travel, statement credits, or transferred to partners, like airlines and hotels. I hold this card, and it’s a favorite of mine for how easy it is to get 2X on everything I buy.
Capital One Venture credit card

3. Chase Freedom Unlimited®

  • Earning Rate: 1.5% back on all purchases, plus bonus rates for travel, dining, and drugstores through Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Why It’s Valuable: Combine these points with a Sapphire card to maximize travel redemptions. I also hold this card and use it often for those everyday spending categories, especially if we’re strategically trying to earn Ultimate Rewards® points for a specific redemption.

4. American Express Blue Business® Plus Credit Card

  • Earning Rate: 2x Membership Rewards® points on the first $50,000 of annual spending (1x after that).
  • Why It’s Valuable: Perfect for those with everyday expenses that don’t fit into other bonus categories, especially for those who are frequent travelers on Amex transfer partners.
An American Express Blue Business Plus credit card

5. Discover it® Miles

  • Earning Rate: Unlimited 1.5x miles on all purchases.
  • Why It’s Great: New cardholders get their rewards matched at the end of the first year. Discover doesn’t have any airline or hotel transfer partners, making it a less popular option with rewards travelers, but you can “erase” travel purchases with your points on their website.

Why These Cards Shine

Flat-rate earning cards are ideal for uncategorized expenses, large one-off purchases, or times when you’re unsure which card to use. They’re perfect for simplifying your strategy while still earning valuable rewards.

  • 💳 Get a Free Credit Card Consultation

    Kick off your rewards travel journey with personalized advice, tailored to your travel goals and preferences.
    Hand holding a selection of credit cards. Capital One Venture Card

    Sign up here    .
    Subject to availability.

How to Remember Which Card to Use for Each Purchase

Maximizing credit card points rewards means trying to always using the right card in the right situation—but keeping track can be tricky! Here are a few tips to make it easier.

1. Use the CardPointers App

The CardPointers app is a lifesaver for organizing your credit cards. It tracks your cards and spending categories, sending reminders about which card to use for maximum rewards based on your location and purchase type. I started with the free version but ended up upgrading to a lifetime membership since it was so useful.

Screenshot of the CardPointers app interface displaying various features for managing credit cards and rewards.

2. Add Credit Card Stickers

Use Credit Card Categories Stickers to label your cards with spending categories. For example, a sticker might say “Dining” or “Groceries,” helping you remember at a glance which card is best for each purchase when you look in your wallet.

3. Create a Cheat Sheet

Write a simple cheat sheet listing your cards and their bonus categories. Keep it in your wallet or save it on your phone for easy reference.

4. Organize Your Wallet

Arrange your cards in your wallet by spending categories. For instance, keep dining cards in one section and grocery cards in another to quickly grab the right one.

5. Set Notifications

Many card apps allow you to set spending reminders or alerts. Use these to nudge yourself when making a purchase in a specific category.

6. Leverage Habit Stacking

Make a habit of reviewing your cards each time you check your budget or pay your bills. Over time, this can help you remember the best card for each category.

Hand holding a selection of credit cards.

Tips for Maximizing Credit Card Points with Category Multipliers

  • Track Spending Habits: Know where you spend most, whether it’s dining, groceries, gas, or something else.
  • Match Cards to Categories: Use a card optimized for each purchase category.
  • Combine Points: Pair a no-annual-fee card with a premium card for transfer options (e.g., Chase Sapphire Preferred® and Ink Business Unlimited®).
  • Time Big Purchases: Plan significant expenses to align with multiplier benefits, such as holiday travel or home upgrades.
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Final Thoughts

Category multipliers are one of the simplest ways to supercharge your points-earning strategy. By using credit cards that align with your spending habits, you can stretch your budget and earn rewards faster. Whether you’re stocking up on groceries, enjoying a family meal out, or booking flights, there’s a card that can maximize every dollar.

Now’s the time to start stacking your points—and bring your travel dreams to life!

If you have any questions or need further advice feel free to email me or send me a message on Instagram. I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you improve your family’s adventures.

Please note that this article contains affiliate links, and I may earn a referral commission if you choose to apply through my links. As a small business, these earnings help me to continue to bring you content like this at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

The post Credit Card Points: Understanding Category Multipliers to Unlock Travel Potential appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> Earn More Travel Rewards with Two Player Mode: Doubling the Fun by Working with Your Partner https://marionthemap.com/two-player-mode-earn-more-travel-rewards/ Thu, 23 Jan 2025 00:22:44 +0000 https://marionthemap.com/?p=2596 Mari on the Map

Earn More Travel Rewards with Two Player Mode: Doubling the Fun by Working with Your Partner

Traveling with a family means you need even more points to get anywhere—for us, it's flights and lodging times four, which can deplete our hard-earned rewards rather quickly. Enter two player mode, where I can tap my husband, so our family can earn more faster. Two player mode is one of the most powerful strategies you can use to exponentially increase your rewards. In this guide, I'll walk you through what two player mode is, when and how to use it, and how to take advantage of credit card and travel programs that allow you to pool your points. Assemble your team, and get ready to earn more travel rewards faster than ever before.

The post Earn More Travel Rewards with Two Player Mode: Doubling the Fun by Working with Your Partner appeared first on Mari on the Map.

]]> Mari on the Map

Earn More Travel Rewards with Two Player Mode: Doubling the Fun by Working with Your Partner

This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.

Traveling with a family means you need even more points to get anywhere—for us, it’s flights and lodging times four, which can deplete our hard-earned rewards rather quickly. Enter two player mode, where I can tap my husband, so our family can earn more faster. Two player mode is one of the most powerful strategies you can use to exponentially increase your rewards. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what two player mode is, when and how to use it, and how to take advantage of credit card and travel programs that allow you to pool your points. Assemble your team, and get ready to earn more travel rewards faster than ever before.

What is Two Player Mode?

Two player mode refers to the strategy of teaming up with a partner—whether it’s a spouse, partner, friend, or family member—to maximize credit card rewards, hotel points, and airline miles. The idea is simple: by opening cards under each of your names separately and combining your points, you can accelerate the rate at which you accumulate travel rewards. The sky is the limit with this strategy. If you have multiple players who you trust, you can keep adding them to the “game”. Fun fact: I have a friend who works with her parents and siblings in six player mode!

My husband and I used two player mode to plan our family trip to Oahu and Maui for only $67.20 for our flights and hotels. Read all about it here.

Family of four taking a professional photo with Shoott in Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

When should you use two player mode to earn more travel rewards?

1. Maximizing Sign-Up Bonuses

Many credit cards offer generous sign-up bonuses, but these are usually per individual cardholder. By having your partner refer you to a card they already have, you can earn a sign-up bonus, and they can earn a referral bonus, doubling your rewards. DO NOT add your partner or have them add you as an authorized user on a card. Being added as an authorized user will make you ineligible for that card’s sign-up bonus, at least temporarily.

Example: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® card often offers 60,000 points after you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months. If both you and your partner sign up, you can earn 120,000 points in total. If one of you opens it first and refers the other, the first card holder will also earn points for the referral, which can sometimes be 20,000 points or more. However, if you are approved for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® card and add your partner as an authorized user, you now only have the ability to earn the single 60,000 sign-up bonus.

2. Accelerating Your Earning Potential

Some credit cards offer enhanced rewards in specific categories, like 5x points on travel or groceries. By having separate cards, you can both take advantage of these multipliers on all of your household purchases.

3. Combining Points for Big Redemptions

Certain loyalty programs allow you to pool points with another person. This is especially valuable for programs with high redemption thresholds, like international flights or hotel stays, where having twice the points can make all the difference.

A couple smiles while embracing in an infinity pool, with tropical palm trees and the clear blue ocean in the background. Earn more travel rewards

Credit Card Programs That Allow You to Pool Points

Some of the top rewards programs let you combine points with your partner. Here’s how to make the most of these opportunities:

Chase Ultimate Rewards®

Chase allows you to transfer your points between accounts for free if you have a spouse or domestic partner. You just need to add your partner as an authorized user to one of your Chase cards. You can combine points for bigger redemptions, like flights or hotel stays. If you don’t want to add your partner as an authorized user, so you can keep referring cards to each other, you still have the option to pool your points into one hotel loyalty program. More on that below.

Citi ThankYou® Points

Citi’s ThankYou points can be transferred between household members who are linked through their Citi account, so you can pool points this way if you both have eligible cards.

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Hotel Points Programs That Allow You to Pool

Hotel loyalty programs are another great way to make the most of two player mode and earn more travel rewards. Here’s how you can leverage hotel points pooling:

World of Hyatt

Hyatt allows you to combine points with a member of your household. This is a great option for when you want to redeem your points for a suite or longer stays. You can also have you and your partner transfer your individual Chase Ultimate Rewards points into the same World of Hyatt account.

Hyatt Regency Dubai United Arab Emirates

Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott allows you to combine points with up to five members, as long as they each have a Marriott Bonvoy account. You can also transfer points between accounts to use for stays or experiences.

Hilton Honors

Hilton offers a pooling program where you can combine points with up to 10 people. This can help you book a luxurious stay for a longer period or upgrade your accommodations.

An aerial view of a beachfront at The Holiday Inn Resort Pensacola Beach pool area with multiple pools, a lazy river, and lounge chairs surrounded by palm trees. In the background, there is a wooden walkway leading over sand dunes to a wide beach with rows of umbrellas and the clear blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Airline Programs That Allow You to Pool Points

Some airlines have pooling programs that let you combine miles with a partner. Here’s a look at how to do it:

Southwest Rapid Rewards®

Southwest allows you to transfer points to another Rapid Rewards member. However, this comes with a fee, so make sure you do the math before transferring points. Southwest also offers one of the most lucrative benefits for families that you can earn with or without a player two: the Southwest Companion Pass.

JetBlue TrueBlue

JetBlue’s family pooling program allows you to combine points with up to five people. It’s free to pool points with family members, making it a great option for families or couples who travel frequently.

British Airways Avios

British Airways allows you to pool Avios points with other members of your household. This is an excellent way to accumulate points faster for travel to Europe or to other international destinations.

Air France-KLM Flying Blue Family

Flying Blue‘s family program allows you to pool miles with family members, which can be a great way to accumulate and redeem miles faster. Through this program, you can link up to seven family members and combine your miles for rewards like flights or upgrades.

A Southwest Airlines plane an an airport runway with mountains in the background.

How to Keep Track of the Extra Cards

As you and your partner begin managing multiple rewards cards, it’s important to stay organized. Here are a few tips for keeping track of your extra cards:

  1. Use Apps Like CardPointers: CardPointers can help you keep track of which card to use for different categories and remember to earn more travel rewards in the right places.
  2. Set Up Alerts for Spending and Bonuses: Many credit cards allow you to set alerts for spending and bonus categories, so make sure you’re maximizing your rewards.
  3. Track Your Rewards Points Separately: It’s a good idea to keep track of both your and your partner’s points separately to avoid confusion when it comes time to redeem them.
Screenshot of the CardPointers app interface displaying various features for managing credit cards and rewards.

Authorized User Cards: When They Help, When They Don’t

Authorized users are typically a no-no in player two mode, but being an authorized user on your partner’s credit card can sometimes help you rack up more points. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

When It Helps:

  • If the card offers valuable rewards like lounge access and your partner doesn’t mind you having access. For perks like lounge access, you can typically bring in two other people with the cardholder, but it might be worth your partner having their own card as an authorized user if you have a larger family to bring into the lounge or if your partner travels a lot without you.
  • When you can use the points for mutual travel benefits, like booking a flight or hotel stay together.
  • If you want to improve your credit score by having a positive credit account associated with your name.

When It Doesn’t Help:

  • If the card has an annual fee that you’ll be responsible for, or if it doesn’t offer rewards for your personal spending habits.
  • If you don’t trust your partner to manage the credit responsibly, as missed payments or high balances could hurt both of your credit scores.

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Getting a Reluctant Partner Onboard

Getting your partner to join you in two player mode can sometimes be tricky, especially if they’re skeptical of rewards travel in general. Here are some tips to convince them:

  1. Focus on the Benefits: Highlight the travel rewards and perks that come with the cards, such as free checked bags, access to airport lounges, and priority boarding. Who wouldn’t want those benefits when traveling?
  2. Emphasize the “Free” Travel: Remind them that rewards from credit cards can be used for flights, hotel stays, and even car rentals—all of which reduce the overall cost of travel.
  3. Offer to Handle the Heavy Lifting: If they’re not interested in tracking points or managing the cards, offer to take care of the details—like managing the spending requirements and redeeming points.
  4. Remind Them There’s a Potential Credit Score Boost: Many people worry about how credit cards will affect their credit score, but as long as you use your cards responsibly—by paying on time and keeping balances low—rewards travel won’t negatively impact your credit. In fact, it can even improve your credit score over time by showing responsible credit usage. Many avid rewards travelers have credit scores over 800.
A couple smiles at each other standing in front of the Colosseum in Rome, Italy

When should you not use two player mode?

While two player mode can help you rack up rewards, it’s not always the best choice. Here are a few situations where you might want to reconsider this strategy:

  1. If Your Partner Isn’t Onboard: If your partner isn’t interested in managing credit cards, or if they’re reluctant to open accounts, the extra effort may not be worth it for you, especially if you’ve tried the tips above for getting them onboard.
  2. If Your Partner Has Bad Credit: You need a good credit score to be approved for many rewards cards. If your partner’s credit score is low, it could hurt their chances of approval.

Final Thoughts: Double Your Points, Double Your Fun

Two player mode is an incredibly powerful way to earn more travel rewards, and with the right strategies, it can open up a whole new world of possibilities. By pooling points from credit cards, airlines, and hotel programs, you can book more family trips by having enough points to get more than two people where you want to go.

So grab your travel partner, get organized, and start multiplying those rewards for your next adventure!

If you have any questions or need further advice feel free to email me or send me a message on Instagram. I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you.

Please note that this article contains affiliate links, and I may earn a referral commission if you choose to apply through my links. As a small business, these earnings help me to continue to bring you content like this at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

The post Earn More Travel Rewards with Two Player Mode: Doubling the Fun by Working with Your Partner appeared first on Mari on the Map.

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